Virginia to Stop Allowing Out-of-State People Carry Concealed Guns

Virginia will no longer allow out-of-state people to carry concealed guns even if they have permits from their respective states. Attorney General Mark R. Herring (D) said on Tuesday that the reciprocity agreements that Virginia has with 25 other states are coming to an end.

"To me, this is a commonsense step that can help make Virginians and our law enforcement officers safer by ensuring that Virginia's laws on who can and cannot carry a concealed handgun are applied evenly, consistently, and fairly," Herring said in a statement reported by The Washington Post. "Our General Assembly has already identified who can and cannot conceal handguns in Virginia, and we cannot have that decision undermined by recognizing permits from other states with more permissive standards."

The review headed by Herring's office found that the 25 states, out of a total of 30, had laxer laws, in regards to handing out gun permits, than Virginia does. Herring stressed the importance of making sure that people from other states, especially those who have a history of violence or mental illness, are not allowed to conceal their weapons if they come to Virginia.

The 25 states include Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

The five remaining states that still have the reciprocity agreement intact are Michigan, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah and West Virginia.

Herring's office stated that the State Police superintendent has accepted the recommendation. The reciprocity agreements for the 25 states will officially end on Feb. 1.

In Virginia, certain people, such as those who have received inpatient treatment for mental health issues, are not allowed to receive a permit for a concealed handgun. Virginians who have a history of stalking or drug dealing also cannot obtain a permit. Overall, there are a total of 20 conditions that could prevent someone from getting a permit for a concealed gun in Virginia.

Herring's latest move could affect the nation's conversation surrounding gun control. Gun rights advocates have heavily criticized Herring, as well as other politicians, for demanding stricter gun laws.