(SB891)

GOVERNOR'S VETO

Pursuant to Article V, Section 6, of the Constitution of Virginia, I veto Senate Bill 891, which requires a waiting period to purchase a firearm.

My position on this legislation is unchanged from last year. The proposed waiting periods would impede individuals facing threats of violence from promptly acquiring a firearm for self-defense.

Virginia's existing background check ensures that individuals prohibited by State or Federal law cannot legally access firearms. The Virginia State Police use federal and state records and databases, including the Central Criminal Records Exchange, one of the most complete records repositories in the nation.

The federal Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act of 1993 initially implemented a five-day waiting period between handgun application and sale completion before being found to be unconstitutional.

My commitment to enhancing mental health services is steadfast, reflected in my efforts and record funding to finalize long-neglected mental health systems. These initiatives aim to assist those undergoing mental health crises when an individual needs it most, a reform that is proven to save lives.

Accordingly, I veto this bill.