Virginia AG Launches Unit to Enforce New Gun Industry Accountability Law

Attorney General Jay Jones announced the creation of the Firearms Accountability & Industry Responsibility (FAIR) unit in Virginia. This unit is tasked with enforcing a new law (HB21/SB27) that applies to firearm industry members, including manufacturers, importers, distributors, and dealers. The law prohibits these businesses from knowingly contributing to a "public nuisance" through unlawful or unreasonable sales, manufacturing, or marketing practices. Furthermore, the state can initiate lawsuits if retailers sell products to customers who present a substantial risk of firearm misuse.

The new law introduces significant operational and legal liabilities for businesses involved in the firearm supply chain in Virginia. The FAIR unit is empowered to investigate violations and bring suits against non-compliant industry members. This regulatory action imposes new compliance burdens on the firearms industry segment operating within the state.