Washington, D.C. — Center for American Progress Vice President of Guns and Crime Policy Chelsea Parsons released the following statement today on Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring’s (D) announcement that Virginia is revoking reciprocity agreements and will no longer recognize concealed carry permits issued in 25 states because they fail to meet the standards for issuing such permits established by Virginia law.
Attorney General Herring’s action today is a significant step forward in protecting public safety in Virginia. By carefully reviewing the reciprocity agreements with other states and revoking those that fall short of Virginia’s reasonable standards for issuing concealed carry permits, Attorney General Herring has helped ensure that the privilege of carrying concealed, loaded firearms in our communities is reserved only for law-abiding individuals who would be eligible under Virginia law. This closes a substantial gap that has allowed nonresidents to undermine Virginia law and use their permits issued in states with lax laws to carry concealed guns in Virginia. As demonstrated by the leadership of Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D-VA) and now Attorney General Herring, leaders do not have to wait for Congress or their respective state legislatures to take action to reduce gun violence in our communities. State leaders can and should take action now to reduce gun violence and save lives.
Last week, the Center for American Progress released a report offering 28 ideas for nonlegislative action that state executives can take to prevent gun violence and fight gun crime, which included the action announced today by Attorney General Herring.
For more information on this topic or to speak with an expert, contact Tom Caiazza at [email protected] or 202.481.7141.
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