(HB46)<font size=-1>
<p>GOVERNOR'S VETO</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<ul><p>Pursuant to Article V, Section 6, of the Constitution of
Virginia, I veto House Bill 46, which relates to firearm transfers to another
person from a person subject to a protective order or convicted of a
misdemeanor.</p>

</ul><ul><p>I join the patrons in their pursuit of condemning domestic
abuse, it is unequivocally deplorable. Make no mistake, Virginia should ensure
that domestic abusers are dealt with appropriately, and those who resort to
illegal firearm use, especially, should face severe and harsh punishments. </p>

</ul><ul><p>The legislation fails to achieve its intended purpose and is
unnecessary. The existing legal framework addresses firearm possession in cases
of domestic abuse. Courts have the power to require the transfer of firearms
from individuals, and law enforcement can obtain a search warrant to seize for
illegally possessed weapons. Additionally, all firearm transfers are currently
limited to individuals who are legally allowed to possess firearms.</p>

</ul><ul><p>To avoid inadvertent compromises to public safety, policies
should refrain from disarming individuals not subject to a court order, making
other family members less safe, which contradicts our shared goal. The
arbitrary age prohibition, which contradicts our current legal age of
possession, on certain transfers adds further confusion.   </p>

</ul><ul><p>As I advocate for greater protections for victims, I strongly
urge the General Assembly to shift its focus towards proven strategies aimed at
combatting violent crime - mandatory minimums for armed criminals and the
presumption against bail.</p>

</ul><ul><p>Accordingly, I veto this bill.</p>

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