SB173

Weapons; possession prohibited in hospital that provides mental health or developmental services.

Complete·5/14/26

Prohibits possession of firearms, knives, and explosives in hospitals providing mental health or developmental services.

The bill amends the Code of Virginia to make it unlawful for any person to knowingly and intentionally possess firearms, knives, or explosives in hospitals providing mental health or developmental services. Exceptions are made for law enforcement officers and armed security officers in the course of their duties, as well as individuals with written authorization from the hospital. Violations are punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The bill also mandates that notices of these prohibitions be posted at each public entrance of any hospital.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Sponsors

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

21 Yea

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18 Nay

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1 Absent

R

Calendar

Feb 13

8:00 AM

House Public Safety Hearing

Feb 4

9:00 AM

Senate Finance and Appropriations Hearing

History

May 14

Approved by Governor-Chapter 1109 (effective 7/1/2026)

May 14

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP1109)

Apr 22

Senate

Passed by for the day (21-Y 18-N 0-A)