Toscano gun safety bill killed in House subcommittee

Today, House Republican members of Subcommittee #1 of the House Committee for Militia, Police, and Public Safety voted to kill legislation carried by Democratic Leader David Toscano (D-57) to provide resources for voluntary background checks to be conducted for sales between individuals at gun shows.

H.B. 2370, which was supported by Governor Terry McAuliffe and Secretary Brian J. Moran, would have state police officers be available to conduct such voluntary background checks, solely at the request of the individual seller — which would help move the Commonwealth towards better public safety through common-sense gun safety reform.

“The Governor and I appreciate Delegate Toscano’s leadership in carrying the voluntary background check bill, and share his disappointment that this common-sense measure failed,” said Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Moran. “It would have provided an avenue for private sellers to conduct a background check prior to selling or transferring a firearm at gun shows. The results from today’s subcommittee meeting will not deter us from continuing to pursue common-sense legislation that enhances public safety throughout the Commonwealth.”

“I am disappointed,” said Democratic Leader Toscano. “This common-sense legislation would have given sellers the right and choice to obtain a background check, ensuring they were not selling their guns to a dangerous individual. Keeping our streets safe is important to building our new Virginia economy. Safe schools, safe streets and safe communities only help to attract businesses to Virginia — making this issue one that should be a top priority for every member of the General Assembly.”