Governor Spanberger, Senators, and Delegates:

I am an avid hunter and a responsible firearm owner, alongside many others whom I represent through this petition. For us, firearms are part of our lifestyle, used for hunting, recreation, and self-defense. However, these bills will financially infringe on our Second Amendment rights - they will make the use of firearms substantially more expensive.  We oppose Virginia House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, as well as Senate Bill 763, due to the financial impacts these bills will have on us.  Additionally, these bills convey the following message to us: "You don't matter." 

House Bill 207, the $500 suppressor tax, will make it significantly more expensive for us to protect our hearing in a practical and efficient manner. Also, it will limit our ability to protect the hearing of those around us as well as our beloved hunting dogs.  Just as importantly, suppressors reduce recoil and barrel rise, resulting in more accurate shots and better follow-up.  Suppressors are not a tool of criminals; they are a very practical tool for hunting and the shooting range. 

Additionally, House Bills 919 and 1094, as well as Senate Bill 763, will impact law-abiding citizens by placing overly restrictive costs on the use and possession of firearms.  These proposed laws will penalize responsible owners without reducing crime or enhancing community safety in any meaningful way. 

While many firearm-related bills this session relate to safety, these bills are simply anti-gun in nature, infringing on the constitutional rights of law-abiding, hard-working residents of the Commonwealth who come from all walks of life - including Democrats. These bills will financially impact good people for no other reason, really, than that some of you don't like guns.  The bills do not target the real issue—unlawful firearms use and violence of all types.

We urge you to consider the negative financial implications these bills will bring and the negative message they send to those residents who enjoy and use firearms for positive, lawful purposes. We strongly oppose Virginia House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, along with Senate Bill 763.

Respectfully,

Concerned Residents and Firearm Users of Virginia