House passes bill to weaken brandishing laws

The House of Delegates passed a bill Tuesday that weakens what is necessary to find a person guilty of brandishing a weapon.

Under HB 560, patroned by Delegate Scott Lingamfelter, you must intend to cause fear during the act. This will make it more difficult for the police to charge and convict people who threaten to harm others.

The bill passed on a 68-32 vote.

“HB 560 suggests that if you point a gun at someone, they might not reasonably fear it. Tell that to someone facing the barrel of a gun,” said Delegate Mark Levine (45th-Alexandria). “A bill that encourages people to brandish firearms and threaten others is precisely the wrong direction for Virginia. I’m surprised that Republicans in Virginia would want to encourage such irresponsible behavior.”