NRA Files Lawsuits Challenging Virginia's Assault Weapons and Magazine Bans

by
posted on May 18, 2026
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
NRA ILA Lede

The National Rifle Association (NRA) has announced the filing of lawsuits in both Virginia state court and federal court challenging the so-called "assault weapons" ban and magazine ban signed into law by Governor Abigail Spanberger.

"As promised, we are taking Abigail Spanberger to court," said John Commerford, NRA-ILA Executive Director. "Throughout the legislative session, the NRA and our members fought Richmond's radical gun control package tooth and nail. We made it clear that this extreme anti-gun proposal, which bans the new purchase of commonly owned firearms and standard capacity magazines in the Commonwealth, is a blatant violation of Second Amendment rights and an affront to landmark Supreme Court cases. Instead of listening to these factual concerns from their constituents, progressive politicians sided with Michael Bloomberg and his gun-grabbing groups. The NRA will not sit idly by while progressive politicians strip the rights of law-abiding citizens, and our world-class legal team is locked, loaded, and ready to shoot down this outrageous gun-control law."

Background

The legislation (SB749/HB217) bans certain semi-automatic firearms, including many semi-automatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns commonly used by law-abiding citizens for self-defense, hunting, and sporting purposes. It also prohibits the sale of magazines that hold more than 15 rounds. This bill represents an attempt to redefine and ban firearms that are in common use by law-abiding citizens and to prohibit the future sale and transfer of virtually all modern firearms.

To help in thus current fight to keep our 2nd Amendment rights, as well as many likely to come in the future, click the join button in the upper lefthand corner to pick up an NRA membership.

Latest

Lead Photo 22 Loing
Lead Photo 22 Loing

Behind the Bullet: The .22 Long

If we could rewind the clock to 1871, before the .45-70 Government and .45 Colt existed, and when cartridges themselves were just establishing a foothold in the shooting world, you’d find a pair of .22-caliber rimfire designs: the .22 Short and the .22 Long. Aptly named, these cartridges would survive well into the 20th century, ultimately being conquered by the .22 Long Rifle cartridge. But in certain situations, the .22 Long cartridge still makes good sense, and actually has a few specialized applications.

Reviewed: Sitka’s Blizzard Pro Parka

Sitka seems to keep “one upping” themselves with gear that not only keeps hunters in the field at a good comfort level, but also with gear that is well made and fits extremely well. Need a parka for the extreme cold, wet or wind? This Sitka product that could be the last parka you will need!

Suffix to Say: The Savage 99 by the Letter(s)

A savage primer to the letters that make up the models of the 99.

New Black-Bellied Whistling Duck Season in Louisiana

A special nine-day Louisiana black-bellied whistling duck season began Oct. 3 and runs through Oct. 11.

Choosing the Proper Goose Load

When gunning for geese, use these tips to select the optimal load.

First Look: Derya Arms EX1300 O/U Shotgun

Derya Arms has introduced the EX1300, a break-action over/under shotgun offered in 12-gauge, 20-gauge and .410 bore.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.