Virginia · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
SB 496: Handguns in unattended motor vehicle; definitions, penalty.
Enacted Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
SB 496 is a bill introduced in the Virginia Senate on January 13, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: Handguns in unattended motor vehicle; definitions, penalty. Primary sponsor: Dave Marsden (Democratic). It lists 1 additional sponsor. Most recent recorded action (April 13, 2026): Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0561).
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Firearm in unattended motor vehicle; penalty. Creates a Class 4 misdemeanor for any person who, when leaving a handgun in an unattended vehicle, fails to securely store such handgun in a locked hard-sided container, including a locked container that is affixed to the vehicle's interior by steel cable, bolt, or welding. The bill provides that such locked container includes a locked glove compartment or a locked center console. The bill contains certain exemptions, including an exemption for a person who reports the theft or loss of such firearm to a law-enforcement agency as provided in relevant law. This bill is identical to HB 110.
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dave Marsden | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 35 |
| Adam P. Ebbin | Co-sponsor | Not applicable (committee) | — | — |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0561)
- Approved by Governor-Chapter 561 (effective 7/1/2026)
- Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (SB496)
- Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
- Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 31, 2026
- Signed by Speaker
- Signed by President
- Bill text as passed Senate and House (SB496ER)
- Enrolled
- Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (SB496)
- Conference report agreed to by Senate (21-Y 18-N 0-A)
- Conference report agreed to by House (60-Y 36-N 0-A)
Showing 12 most recent of 40 actions. Full history