Virginia Aims to Curtail Violence in Hospitals with Firearms Ban

Virginia’s governor signed into law a bill to ban weapons such as firearms and knives in hospitals that provide mental health services.

Under the new law (SB-173 and HB-229) it’s a misdemeanor to intentionally possess explosives, stun weapons, firearms, and some knives in a hospital with mental health or developmental services. The law also requires notices of the ban on entrances to the hospital.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) held a ceremonial signing of the legislation Thursday, saying the new law aims to protect patients and medical professionals from violence at hospitals. The state legislature is also considering a ...