Virginia’s HB21: A Threat to Jobs, Rights, and Common Sense

Virginia House Bill No. 21 (HB21), another bad gun bill introduced by Patron Helmer, proposes sweeping “standards of responsible conduct” for the firearm industry. While marketed as a safety measure, this bill is a Trojan horse for overregulation, economic harm, and erosion of constitutional rights. Here’s why Virginians should reject HB21—and the facts to back it up.

1. HB21’s Vague Language Invites Abuse

The bill defines “firearm-related product” so broadly that it includes firearms, ammunition, unfinished frames, and accessories. This ambiguity means even small businesses and hobbyists could face lawsuits for actions beyond their control. Worse, HB21 allows civil actions without proving intent, creating a legal minefield for law-abiding businesses.

2. Economic Impact: Jobs and Revenue at Risk

Virginia’s firearm industry is a significant economic contributor. Nationally, the firearm and ammunition industry generated $91.7 billion in economic impact in 2024, supporting over 383,000 full-time jobs with an average wage of $68,300. These jobs aren’t just numbers—they represent families, communities, and tax revenue.

• Taxes Paid: The industry paid $10.97 billion in taxes in 2024, including property, income, and sales taxes.

• Wildlife Conservation: Through Pittman-Robertson excise taxes, the industry contributed $944 million to wildlife conservation in 2023.

• Small Business Backbone: About 80% of retail firearms dealers are small businesses with fewer than 25 employees.

  
  

HB21’s liability provisions could devastate these businesses, forcing closures and job losses across Virginia. Abigail Spanberger ran her campaign on the promise of expanding jobs in Virginia. This is a direct contradiction to that claim.

3. Civil Liability Overreach: Punishing the Innocent

HB21 allows lawsuits against firearm industry members for “public nuisance” if harm is a “reasonably foreseeable effect” of their conduct—even when harm results from criminal acts by third parties. This flips justice on its head, punishing lawful businesses for crimes they did not commit. Historically, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) was enacted to prevent such abuse, recognizing that manufacturers should not be liable for criminal misuse of their products.

4. Impact on Consumer Rights and Constitutional Freedoms

HB21 undermines the Second Amendment by imposing burdensome regulations that restrict lawful commerce. Virginia has a proud tradition of responsible gun ownership, from hunting to self-defense. Excessive liability laws erode these rights and set a dangerous precedent for future restrictions.

5. The Bigger Picture: Safety vs. Reality

Proponents claim HB21 promotes safety, but data tells a different story:

• Firearm-related accidents involving children under 15 have decreased by 15% over the past five years, thanks to education and voluntary safety programs (I teach them)—not punitive legislation.

• 70% of firearm owners have received safety training, demonstrating a commitment to responsible ownership without government overreach. (I teach these too!)

  
  

Instead of targeting law-abiding businesses, lawmakers should focus on enforcing existing laws and supporting proven safety initiatives.

Call to Action

HB21 is not about safety—it’s about control. Its vague language, excessive liability provisions, and disregard for constitutional rights make it a dangerous precedent. Virginians must act now:

• Contact your legislators and urge them to vote NO on HB21.

• Share this article to spread awareness.

• Support organizations that defend your rights and promote responsible gun ownership like Virginia Citizens Defense League (the org who will be fighting these bills head on), Gun Owners of America, and Women for Gun Rights-Virginia.

  
  

Virginia’s future depends on rejecting legislation that sacrifices freedom and economic vitality for political theater. HB21 threatens jobs, small businesses, and constitutional rights—all under the guise of “responsible conduct.” Let’s stand together to protect what matters most: liberty, livelihoods, and common sense. Contact your representatives today and tell them "NO!"