SB 1067 will strengthen Virginia’s Red Flag Law and protect Virginians from preventable firearm violence
Richmond, VA – Today, the Senate of Virginia voted 23-16 with bipartisan support in favor of SB 1067. Senator Scott Surovell (D-Mt. Vernon) introduced this legislation to clarify the various factors that a judge or magistrate must consider to issue an emergency substantial risk order or a substantial risk order under Virginia’s Red Flag Law. This law establishes due process to prevent an individual showing signs of substantial risk to themselves or others from purchasing, possessing, or transporting a firearm. The next step for the legislation will be referral to the House for approval. If it is approved by the legislature and signed by the governor, it will become law in July 2023.
SB 1067 clarifies that a judge or magistrate must consider relevant evidence or recent acts of violence, force, or threat when determining probable cause. This includes an act of violence that resulted in injury, a threat or act of force that resulted in injury, and a violation or arrest for violation of a protective order, among other common-sense factors to prohibit the possession of a firearm. Surovell has been a strong advocate for Virginia’s Red Flag Law and ensuring the public safety of Virginians. Surovell was a chief co-patron of the initial bill to create the Red Flag Law and last year he, along with Senate Democrats, voted down a bill to repeal it.
“We had two mass shootings within 8 days of each other last year and a six year-old shoot a teacher this year and the time for action is now, ” Surovell said. “Gun violence is an epidemic, and we owe it to past and future victims and their families to work together to solve it. Our bills that we passed today will make a difference and now it is up to the House to pass this legislation and save lives.”
Gun control advocates have praised the legislation. “SB 1067, if passed into law, will strengthen Virginia’s Extreme Risk Law,” Kris Brown, president of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence said. “This bill includes common sense policy additions that will ensure that individuals most at risk of dangerous behavior can’t access deadly weapons. We applaud the passing of this bill in the Senate of Virginia with bipartisan support and urge the Virginia legislature to pass this bill to protect the Commonwealth from preventable violence.”
The next step for this bill is to be sent to the House for approval. If it is approved by the legislature and signed by the governor, it will become law in July 2023.
###
Senator Scott A. Surovell represents parts of Fairfax, Prince William, and Stafford Counties since 2015. Prior to his time in the Senate, Surovell served six years in the House of Delegates. Surovell lives in Mt. Vernon with his wife and four children. He practices law and has dedicated his legislative career to fighting for Northern Virginia’s fair share, protecting consumers, and preserving our environment for future generations.