HB978 More sales tax is outrageous. We pay enough in taxes let alone adding another one. Seems you all want small businesses to lose more money. This is not what anyone wants more and more taxes HB13 If you are taking away this tax why don’t you go ahead and also take away the new food tax yall added to dining out. How many xtra taxes will be added?

HB 1135, HB 1351, HB 188, HB 243, HB 334, HB 341, HB 378, hb 550, HB 557, HB 563, HB 720, HB 784, HB 897, HB 919, HB 946, HB 959, HB 961, HB 978, SB 400, SB 763. I oppose all of these bills.

I strongly support a more progressive and fair tax system. As the Federal government guts services, Virginia needs new sources of revenue if we want to maintain our school lunch programs, rural hospitals, green infrastructure investment, and effective emergency response programs. Currently our taxes cap out at $17,000, putting the burden on those who can least afford to pay. I urge you to invest in Virginia, and pass the Fair Share Tax reforms.

I respectfully oppose HB 188. A new 10% marginal tax on income over $1 million would make Virginia’s top tax rate more than double its current 5.75% rate and significantly higher than most neighboring states; North Carolina’s flat rate is 3.99%, West Virginia’s top rate is 4.82%, and Tennessee has no tax on wage income. High-income taxpayers often include entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors who create jobs and invest locally; a sharp tax increase threatens Virginia’s economic competitiveness and could encourage relocation to lower-tax states, shrinking the tax base over time. Virginia already collects significant revenue from gambling taxes; for example, online sports betting taxed at 15% recently generated more than $90 million in a single year and there is room to increase these rates or expand taxes on other vices like tobacco, alcohol, and, if legalized, cannabis. These “vice taxes” align revenue with social costs and place the burden on consumption that has public health implications, rather than penalizing income earners. If additional revenue is needed for public schools, childcare, and housing, the General Assembly should explore smarter, targeted revenue streams and spending efficiencies rather than a punitive income tax increase that risks driving investment and taxpayers out of Virginia. Thank you for considering my views.

OPPOSED to these bills!!!

I oppose HB 188. Virginia taxes are already too high: Virginia has a 5.75% top income tax rate, compared to the 3.99% top income tax rate in North Carolina. Yet this bill would raise taxes even higher, giving Virginia a 10% tax rate, much higher than most states in this country. 10% is much higher than the rates in most neighboring states, such as Kentucky (which has a top rate of 3.5%), Tennessee (which has no state income tax at all), and West Virginia (which has a top rate of 4.82%). Virginia is richer than those states and has a bigger tax base, so Virginia should be able to get by with lower tax rates than most of its neighbors, such as North Carolina. Yet under this bill, the top rate in Virginia would be more than twice as high as in most neighboring states. This bill also might cause Virginia's tax base to shrink, by driving wealthy and productive residents to other states where taxes are lower. An earlier comment describes how a tax on millionaires led to an exodus of high-income people from another state, reducing that state's tax revenue, and leaving it worse off as a result of the tax increase. It would be a bad idea to raise tax rates if so many people or businesses leave the state that the state ends up with very little additional revenue, or even possibly less revenue as a result of the tax increase.

My name is Jessica Mott, of Arlington VA, representing the Virginia Grassroots Coalition. This statewide coalition is comprised of more than 55 grassroots groups and tens of thousands of voters. We ask you to please support a “fair share tax” by creating a new tax bracket for millionaires, through passage of HB979 (Watts), HB1074 (Hernandez), or HB188 (Convirs-Fowler), or a reconciled combination of these bills’ provisions. We share the concerns of many Virginia legislators about the significant cuts and expensive regulatory requirements at the federal level, and the need to ensure funds and access for all to health, food security, education, childcare, and other essential services in the upcoming state budget. We believe Virginia needs new sources of revenue for these increased budget requirements, prioritizing measures which make our tax system more progressive, i.e., imposing higher tax rates on individuals with high income and wealth, thus taking into account their ability to pay and maintaining the overall focus of the Governor on affordability. Increasing the income tax rate provides an effective and fair way to address this need. Currently, all income in excess of $17,000 is taxed by the state at the marginal rate of only 5.75 percent! Accordingly, we ask that you pass one of proposed fair share tax bills, or a reconciled combination of them. In view of our priority of promoting progressive tax measures, we support HB979 with its higher 10% rate for those with income above $1 million and the 8% bracket for those with income between $600,000 and $ 1 million. We also urge you to include HB979’s provision to exempt food and hygiene products from local sales taxes. We note that HB979 and HB188 specify an allocation for education, and in the case of HB188, also for childcare and housing. HB1074 supports a health insurance subsidy. We support these or alternatively, ensuring that the main budget directly accommodates these needs. Thank you for taking our views into consideration.

Abjectly opposed to ANY new taxes for ANY reason. We have an overabundance of money in this state as it is and are taxed enough.

This bill to revise the tax code is long overdue. There is large public support for progressive taxation. While the state has a budget surplus, it has come at the neglect of our public schools, support of working families everywhere with child care, and affordable housing. The bulk of mainstream academic research finds that interstate differences in taxes, including differences in top personal income tax rates, have minimal effects on state economic growth. Nor will the wealthy run away from VA. State taxes on the wealthy have minimal impact on their decision to move out of state. Most wealthy individuals are anchored by family, business interests, and social networks.

As a Virginia resident and voter, I am writing to let you know that I strongly oppose HB243, HB 978, HB188, and HB 979. Virginians are already burdened with high taxes and high cost of living. These bills will only further punish those paying taxes in this state and will likely drive taxpayers, including those with very high incomes, to other states with lower tax burdens. Please reconsider. The prior administration left the state with a surplus. Increased taxes should not be needed to meet the needs of the state.

I support HB188, or the millionaire's tax. Fairfax County Public Schools is facing over a $100 million budget deficit for next year, and the proposed allocation reduces the strain on the General Fund without requiring a regressive sales tax. Currently, the tax would impact less than 0.5% of Virginians and is expected to raise over $1 billion annually. A similar "Fair Share" amendment in Massachusetts from 2022 raised $5.7 billion, doubling forecasts and contributing 5% of the state budget. Furthermore, the number of millionaires in MA since then increased by 30%, dispelling concerns of a rich exodus. I believe this bill will significantly raise Virginians' quality of life without raising the cost of living.

States with high taxes are losing population and wealth. Ny,nj,il,ca.md Losing Nc, tn,fl,sc winning Virginia is neutral.

I oppose HB188. Virginians are already under significant financial pressure as the cost of housing, food, fuel, insurance, and other necessities continues to rise while wages fail to keep pace with inflation. The declining purchasing power of the U.S. dollar has further strained household budgets, particularly in Northern Virginia, where residents have faced additional regional and local tax increases in recent years. Creating a new state income tax bracket only adds to this growing sense of tax fatigue.HB188 also raises serious concerns about Virginia’s economic competitiveness. High-income earners often include small business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors who drive job creation and long-term economic growth. Increasing the top marginal tax rate risks discouraging future investment and incentivizing businesses and skilled professionals to relocate to lower-tax states, weakening Virginia’s tax base over time rather than strengthening it. Virginia has historically benefited from a reputation as a stable, business-friendly Commonwealth with predictable tax policy. HB188 moves the state toward policies seen in jurisdictions that struggle with out-migration and reduced investment. Rather than raising taxes during a period of economic uncertainty, the General Assembly should focus on affordability, responsible budgeting, and policies that allow Virginians to keep more of their hard-earned income.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on HB175. Imagine two service members, both mortally injured in the same line-of-duty incident. What is the difference between the first service member, who lingers 15 days in the hospital before dying, and the second one, who lingers 15 months before also succumbing? The first will be categorized as "active duty deceased" while the second will be categorized as a "100% disabled veteran." Can anyone explain why full tax relief for the first surviving spouse is to be decided by the locality (via local ordinance) while full tax relief for the second surviving spouse is guaranteed by the Commonwealth? To make this inequity clearer, imagine the second service member recovers from the incident, is medically retired from active duty, receives their 100% veteran disability rating, and later dies as a result of their own gross negligence unrelated to their service-connected injuries. The veteran's spouse will still qualify for full tax relief. The first service member’s surviving spouse, however, remains subject to the whims of local government for full tax relief, not to mention the line-of-duty designation required to receive any tax relief. This difference in treatment is not a constitutional variance; it was created by the General Assembly with good intention, yet with insufficient consideration. If you’re going to continue offering tax relief to surviving spouses, please treat service members' survivors the same as disabled veterans' survivors and simply provide the same tax relief calculations for both. I respectfully request a re-write of this bill to make it so. Thank you for your civic service and thoughtful consideration of this request.

When Maryland raised taxes on millionaires in 2007, many moved out of state, resulting in Maryland raising less revenue as a result, according to the Tax Foundation: "The Comptroller of Maryland has reported that the number of 'millionaire' returns tumbled sharply between 2007 and 2008, a 30% drop in filers and 22% drop in declared income. Rather than income taxes from this group rising by $106 million, they fell by $257 million….One-in-eight millionaires who filed a Maryland tax return in 2007 filed no return in 2008….A Bank of America Merrill Lynch analysis of federal tax return data on people who migrated from one state to another found that Maryland lost $1 billion of its net tax base in 2008 by residents moving to other states." Some rich people can move across the border to neighboring states where there is no state income tax, like Tennessee, or where tax rates are lower, like North Carolina (3.99%), Kentucky (3.5%), and West Virginia (4.82%). If they are retirees, they can move to Florida, which has no state income tax.

This is the first time I have submitted a comment. Virginians have many needs, and it costs money to address them. Federal cuts make it harder for Virginia to provide healthcare, address emergencies, protect our planet, educate our kids, and enable our residents to safely and (reasonably) quickly travel to work, family, and social activities I urge the Assembly to pass progressive and equitable tax reforms that close loopholes and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share of programs that benefit us all. Right now the top 1% pay the least in taxes as a percentage of their income. This is obviously unfair! I am not thrilled to pay taxes, but I am willing to help fund services for all and a bit more for the needy. I am not OK with providing more to the wealthiest. I urge the General Assembly to pass HB 243, HB 378, HB 978, and HB 979 as critical tax reforms that help ensure the wealthy pay their fair share and will fund vital government programs that support all Virginians.

HB 1135, HB 1351, HB 188, HB 243, HB 334, HB 341, HB 378, hb 550, HB 557, HB 563, HB 720, HB 784, HB 897, HB 919, HB 946, HB 959, HB 961, HB 978, SB 400, SB 763. I oppose all of these bills.

I strongly support a more progressive and fair tax system. As the Federal government guts services, Virginia needs new sources of revenue if we want to maintain our school lunch programs, rural hospitals, green infrastructure investment, and effective emergency response programs. Currently our taxes cap out at $17,000, putting the burden on those who can least afford to pay. I urge you to invest in Virginia, and pass the Fair Share Tax reforms.

OPPOSED to these bills!!!

Federal cuts endanger Virginia emergency preparedness, green energy support, healthcare access, education, and transportation infrastructure. I urge the Assembly to pass progressive and equitable tax reforms that close loopholes and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share. Right now the top 1% pay the least in taxes as a percentage of their income. I urge the General Assembly to pass HB 243, HB 378, HB 978, and HB 979 as critical tax reforms that help ensure the wealthy pay their fair share and will fund vital government programs that support all Virginians.

Federal cuts endanger Virginia emergency preparedness, green energy support, healthcare access, education, and transportation infrastructure. I urge the Assembly to pass progressive and equitable tax reforms that close loopholes and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share. Right now the top 1% pay the least in taxes as a percentage of their income. I urge the General Assembly to pass HB 243, HB 378, HB 978, and HB 979 as critical tax reforms that help ensure the wealthy pay their fair share and will fund vital government programs that support all Virginians.

Abjectly opposed to ANY new taxes for ANY reason. We have an overabundance of money in this state as it is and are taxed enough.

We need a more equitable tax code that addresses loopholes and ensures the wealth pay their fair share. Too many corporations underpay their workers and force them to rely on public services to make ends meet. I strongly support HB-243 that ensures that corporations pay all the externality costs associated with their predatory exploitation of low-wage workers.

As a Virginia resident and voter, I am writing to let you know that I strongly oppose HB243, HB 978, HB188, and HB 979. Virginians are already burdened with high taxes and high cost of living. These bills will only further punish those paying taxes in this state and will likely drive taxpayers, including those with very high incomes, to other states with lower tax burdens. Please reconsider. The prior administration left the state with a surplus. Increased taxes should not be needed to meet the needs of the state.

This bill seems to only be put into place to stop poor people from exercising their rights, this is very concerning especially since suppressors are used for hearing protection.

To the finance subcommittee, my name is Walker Blackston. I am an actor and screenwriter based in Arlington and owner of a film collective in the region with 20 members and growing, and I support HB 400. It will help grow Virginia’s film industry and economy, an area of much needed growth as we are outpaced by much smaller states with smaller budgets and fewer landscapes to be proud of and see on the big screen. We have a film hungry community, eager to work and bring in bigger projects and jobs to the area that could help diversify the reasons for bringing others to our state beyond governmental work. I know that my wife and I frequently consider moving our funds, taxes and business to areas such as Atlanta, New Orleans, or Richmond, simply for its more direct benefits to the film community, and we speak for many working remotely with no other ties to the region. I hope you will consider my testimony among others in support of bill and its value. Thanks for your time, Walker Blackston

Hello. I work in the film/television production industry as an executive producer and writer. I fully support HB 400 and hope you will work to pass it. I am confident it will help grow Virginia’s film industry and economy and reduce the number productions moving out of state seeking more attractive environments. Thanks you, David O'Donnell

Good afternoon, My wife and I would highly encourage you to support HB400. In addition to being actors in Virginia, we are also film producers and support (acting, crew, producing) to other VA film productions as well. Research from JLARC, DLI, and other sources suggests for every tax dollar spent supporting HB400, there is a return ingest of up to $13 from direct, indirect, and broader investment--money injected back into the Virginia economy. Adoption of HB400 would support local employment across the state, purchases of VA goods/services, and would be paid for by increased tax revenue. Please support.

My name is Kristen Daugherty. I grew up in Virginia and love it here. I’ve been working in film and TV since 2015, getting two Bachelor’s degrees and a Master’s degree in between. I’m an Independent Producer and Production Manager, seeking to bring projects to audiences that empower, inspire, and move people in the way that movies and shows can do. The entertainment industry, itself, is known to have incredible impact on its surrounding territories and economy because of all the external businesses that just one single project can support. I support HB400 because it will not only help grow Virginia’s film industry and its economy, but also because I am proud to be from Virginia. This bill will allow projects to come to or originate in Virginia and give our filmmakers the ability to work and thrive in our economy. Without it, projects will choose other states to work in and our workforce, and all of its economic and cultural contributions, will have to follow the work. I hope to show the prowess of our state, capabilities of its people, and all that Virginia has to offer. I hope to employee people and bring wealth to small businesses. I support HB400.

​I am Jacqueline Jones from Mechanicsville, VA. I work in the film industry as an actor and I am writing in support of HB 400. It will help grow Virginia’s film industry and economy. Thank you!

The City of Richmond supports this bill and believes this program will continue to benefit the film industry in Central Virginia and across the Commonwealth. With appreciation for the patron.

My name is Jeanne Bishop. I’m a longtime Virginia resident and worker in the film industry as a Costumer and Set Dresser. I strongly support HB400 and appreciate Delegate Herring’s hard work on this bill and support of our Virginia Film Industry. I’ve seen the positive impact it’s made on local businesses and crew. Our livelihood depends on this film incentive to draw work to our great State. Many other states with no where near the numbers of skilled and experienced crew (West Va for an example) have far more in incentives than we do. So much money is put into the state economy during production. Please vote yes on HB400. Thank you.

Please support HB400 and give the thousands of Virginians who work in the motion picture industry a fighting chance to grow our industry and compete with our neighboring states.

I've worked in film here in Virginia for 10 years as a picture car coordinator. I'm responsible for finding cars, bikes and vehicles for productions. I'm also responsible for painting, or changing the way that they look or operate, which requires a lot of outsourced help. Please understand that bill HB400 is critical for not just us in the film industry, but also equally critical for those that don't work directly in the film industry. Many businesses experience a major influx of work/ services provided or products sold when there are productions in town. This is why when I call my usual vendors, they are happy and more than eager to deal with us, because they know we will be spending a lot of money with them. New vendors that have not experienced the rush of revenue that comes to town are equally grateful. I think it is most important to understand that film in Virginia, my home, is needed to keep Virginians working and bringing revenue for the Commonwealth.

Hello, my name is Rachel Sargeant. I have worked in the film industry since 2013 as an actress, photo double for a principal actress in The Walking Dead World Beyond, and Stand-In for several of the shows filming in Virginia, and I support HB 400. It will help grow Virginia’s film industry and economy. The VA Film industry has provided incredible opportunities for many individuals to continue to live and work in the Virginia Film Industry and international connections within the global film community. More recently because of my film experience in Virginia I was able to stand-in for Shira Haas on Marvel’s Captain America Brave New World when the production came to Washington D.C. Several of my friends from Virginia Film worked on the crew and cast. Incredible! Being active in Virginia Film for over a decade I have seen first hand the growth and opportunities of my friends many of whom have become eligible to join SAG-AFTRA and IATSE and continue to work as film actors and crew in VA. This was only possible due to our engagement within the VA film industry on Mercy Street, Dopesick, TURN, The Walking Dead, Swagger, and Golden. I have traveled all over the state to work on these productions. We also have growing number of independent films being created in communities all around our state! I joined the Virginia Production Alliance (VPA) in 2017 and have been able to participate in many professional development and film performance events since then. The VPA and Casting Directors of our major productions recognize the talent that is here in VA and continue to provide training, development, and networking to support our growing industry in VA. Virginia Colleges and Universities provide exceptional opportunities for training theatre and film graduates. I have also enjoyed working on university student films in VA and with the students & graduates who have been able to stay in VA and work on the larger productions. Please continue to support and build our Film Industry in Virginia so that we can continue to work here in beautiful Virginia. So many professionals in the global film industry have expressed how much the love coming here to film, but we need your support to continue to provide those opportunities and growth in Virginia. My favorite place to be on set is right here in Virginia.

I am Elizabeth Brown. I pursue work in the Virginia film industry and I support HB 400. It will help grow Virginia’s film industry, economy, and talent.

I work in the film industry, and I support HB 400. It will help grow Virginia’s film industry and economy.

Hello and thank you for this opportunity. I support HB400. I live in North Chesterfield and have worked in Virginia's film industry since 2000. My wife and I both owe our livelihood to the productions that come to our state. We have the history, the locations, crew and infrastructure any production needs. The loss of Virginias film industry will be a loss for Virginia! Please support our extremely hardworking and talented crew members by supporting HB400.

I am Lindsey Paulette. I work in the film industry as Production Coordinator, Makeup Artist, and Director. I own and operate my own film production company in Richmond, Virginia. I support HB400. It will help grow Virginia's film industry and economy.

My name is Ramona L. Taylor and serve as a the current President of the Virginia Production Alliance (VPA). I am an award winning filmmaker, screenwriter, and the owner of two production companies. I have worked in the industry as a script supervisor on several local and national projects including, Walking Dead, Turn, Point of Honor and Virginia Lottery commercials. I support this bill and am joined by the VPA membership, which includes filmmakers, artists, and business owners (large and small) across the State , that support this bill as well.

I am Miles Hopkins. I work in the film industry as a film production company and studio owner, and I support HB 400. It will help grow Virginia’s film industry and economy.

The increase to the tax credit for film and digital media is an absolute necessity for the job market. Other examples of this can be seen in Georgia, New York, LA, etc. This bill not only helps artists and actors, but also bring jobs and opportunity to film crews, location rentals, supply companies, food and beverage services, hotel and other service providers, along with giving the state the reputation of an artistic haven, bringing culture, tourism, and other adjacent sources of revenue.

Support Virginia’s vital film industry by supporting House Bill 400! House Bill 400 seeks to extend the tax credit's sunset date and requests a modest funding increase and I encourage Virginia's delegates to take action. These incentives make Virginia more economically competitive by retaining the workforce, and creating a long-term marketplace for success in the film industry. I am a professional actor who lives in Arlington and for far too long, almost all of the auditions I've had have been in Atlanta, New York or Philadelphia. We have a vibrant, accomplished, professional and large industry base here in Virginia - both in front of the camera talent like me, as well as behind the camera - including directors, camera and sound operators, editors and more. We need to make sure Virginia is competitive in the South and Mid-Atlantic to grow our jobs and economy. Thank you.

I am asking for your vote for HB400. I am a SAG-AFTRA member. Before the last administration, I made a very decent income from being an actor in Virginia. Since the funding is nonexistent, my income has dwindled and is not acceptable. Virginia once had a significant impact on the film industry. Some productions to mention were: Good Lord Bird, Harriett, Swagger, Dopesick, Walking Dead, Fellow Travelers, Gravediggers, Tapawingo, Succession, and Atlantis. Please provide the funding for this bill so that Virginia will bring work back to the industry and state.

The creatives, artists, actors, and crew members of the film industry need this bill to be passed in order to have a sustainable career in Virginia. With the growing tax incentives outside of our state, it has forced many freelancers like myself to book jobs in cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. If you ask many of us, we would much rather forego long travels and work here, within Virginia. Supporting this bill will not only help our film ecosystem, but also drive significant local economic growth by supporting neighboring businesses. Please vote in favor of HB400, our careers depend on it. Thank you!

So very necessary for middle income actors, crew, etc in Virginia. A must for continued work in our state. Films showcase our beautiful state and employ so many non industry people. It’s a WIN WIN for all

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A vote in favor of this bill is a vote to boost Virginia's economy in significant ways. When a film or television production comes to a city, it can generate a meaningful economic ripple effect by bringing in outside spending and supporting local jobs and businesses. Productions typically spend locally on hotels, short-term housing, catering, restaurants, transportation, fuel, permits, security, equipment rentals, and location fees, often totaling hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars over a short period. They also hire local crew, performers, and support staff, creating paid work and helping develop a skilled regional workforce. Beyond the set, cast and crew spend money like residents—dining out, shopping, and using local services—which boosts small businesses. Over time, consistent production activity can encourage growth in studios, rental houses, post-production services, and training programs, strengthening the local creative economy. Additionally, films and shows can raise a city’s visibility, sometimes leading to tourism tied to filming locations, while governments may see increased tax revenue from related sales, lodging, and income. Altogether, screen productions function as a high-value visitor industry that can deliver both short-term spending and longer-term industry development. Please vote in favor of this bill.

Virginia is rife with available resources that would make us an East Coast Mecca. VA Actors have to travel to Atlanta, West Virginia, even Flordia for work, sometimes even relocating, taking there VA tax dollars with them. As an actor who was in the Miami market for 20 years, incentives produced a lot work till politics drove the work to Atlanta. Georgia’s inventive have produced billions of dollars for its economy. We could be the next state as a destination for production companies, driving economic impact beyond what tourism is brining in.

Please extend these credits. It’s difficult to find film wok in VA—we must compete with other states and bring these important projects to the commonwealth.

I am in favor of all these bills specifically. Thank you.

Hello and thank you for your time. My name is Victoria Petrone and I have worked in the film industry for 12+ years and would love to be able to continue to do so, in the state of Virginia. The past few years have been very difficult as work has increasingly slowed down, not only for those in the industry but the surrounding businesses that benefit from large scale productions coming to our great city and state. Richmond was once a place that was booming with new opportunities and future creative projects that allowed everyone from all walks of life to support themselves and families. By extending the tax credits, we have a better chance of doing what we love for our careers and livelihood right here in Virginia. If this should not pass, many of us will be forced to find new careers or possibly have to uproot our families. Please support this bill.

I urge you to pass HB400. The extension of the sunset is vital to the continuation of film work here in the Commonwealth. Many people are dependent on film production for their livelihood bring a local tax base to Virginia. I urge you to support HB400 Thank you Tom Barrett

I am an actor, screenwriter, producer, and musician and Virginia has been my home for most of my life. Virginia is also what got my foot in the door to the film industry, not Hollywood, and I would not be where I am in my film career if it wasn’t for Virginia’s film industry! With that being said, Virginia has so much to offer when it comes to film, both in the talent that hails from here and its numerous locations! As of right now, those locations have been gathering dust and the talent has been leaving from Virginia due to the lack of opportunities. I stand with HB400 to allow talent to stay in their home state while building their careers and to allow economic opportunity to come to Virginia through productions that use a multitude of in-state services (hotels, restaurants, Virginia businesses and locations, etc). Virginia is truly for film lovers!

We need to support HB400. Without the support of HB400 we will lose our livelihoods in Virginia and be forced to move out of state for work. Film incentives bring so much to the local economy! This is our last chance, please take this seriously and support to keep film and its workers in Virginia. Thank you

I am currently a student at Virginia Commonwealth University studying cinema. Once I graduate, I want to be able to find work in the state I was born and raised in. Increasing the tax credit will ensure that more work will be brought to Virginia, keeping me here and able to do what I'm passionate about. Otherwise, I will have to move to find work.

My name is Alex Bond and I’m a freelance professional in the media production industry. The tax credits provided by the state for films produced in Virginia are vital to ensure that me, my colleagues, my friends, and my family are able to sustain ourselves financially, while creating art that serves our community. I cannot understate the value movies have to the local community as a shining example of how a diverse group of people can work together to make something bigger than themselves. It’s a testament to the importance of collaboration, problem solving, and resilience to adversity as a collective. In addition, the motion picture production industry is a financial boon to the Virginia economy. Local retailers see significantly increased revenue throughout production (through lodging, restaurants, bars, etc) while productions of significant exposure provide increased revenue in tourism efforts, ever reminding those outside the state what we have to offer. Thanks to tax credits, productions can spend more of their budget on hard-working Virginia laborers, further stimulating our local economy. Increased tax credits provide more opportunities for motion pictures to be produced in Virginia and improve the livelihood of our state at large. I request the committee pass HB400, so our state’s production industry can continue to thrive and become a pivotal piece to the motion picture production industry.

I have been a part of the Virginia film community since 1992 and I remember a time when there was so much film work here that I didn't even have to leave the RVA for 3 years to find a production to work on. I remember when our friends from Atlanta came here to work because we had the productions! Many productions from all over the country came here to work. You don't have to imagine what that did for our economy, the history is there, you can see it for yourself. Our technicians are second to none, but if there's no work for us many choose to take their skills elsewhere so that they can build a life for themselves. This bill would keep Virginians employed in the Commonwealth, in their chosen industry. Now combine that with money coming from out of state and it's a win win! Hotels are filled, restaurants get frequented , vehicles get rented, anything that you can think of gets touched financially. Lower unemployment, more opportunities! West Virginia, Kentucky, North Carolina are already being looked at by production companies as well as New Jersey! Please just give us a fighting chance! We would rather be working here, at home! Thank you!

My name is Scott Miller, and I support HB400. I am a Richmond, VA resident, working in the local film industry. Thanks to the motion picture tax credit, I've made a career in film and television as a set lighting technician. If the tax credit expires, I will be forced to train for another career, or move to another state. Virginia is my home, and HB400 will allow me to continue to live and work in my home state.

Hi, my name is Brian Sarvis and I am a small business owner in Virginia. My business provides grip and electrical services for motion pictures, television and commercial advertisements. The tax incentives for Virginia are essential for keeping productions coming into the state and spending millions of dollars to help not only my business, but hundreds of other small businesses and employ IATSE workers in Virginia. The film industry is how a lot of people in Virginia make there living and the tax incentives are huge part of what helps make that a reality.

Please support HB400! The states all throughout the Southeast that surround Virginia are taking work away from us in droves because we're barely able to compete. Virginia has some of the most amazing locations and an incredible, professional film industry workforce, and currently, we're not able to take full advantage. By extending the tax incentives, or ultimately expanding them, there is no question that Virginia will benefit economically. In the face of federal cuts to our workforce, we need every opportunity we can get to continue to build and HB400 will help us to do that. Also, by targeting distressed areas of the state for increased incentive allocations, HB400 would not only attract films but also invest in areas far too often neglected.

Thanks for taking the time to review comments. I am a member of the Directors Guild of America and lifelong resident of VA. We cannot stay competitive in VA with this bill. Film and TV productions are chasing incentives across the country and the world. Many uniquely VA stories written by VA authors are being filmed out of state because of a lack of a robust incentive. Check out "Blacktop Highway" and "Demon Copperhead" productions. Please support this bill and help the local residents stay in the business and keep working. Thank You.

I am writing to ask you to support HB 400, which would increase the cap on the Motion Picture Production Tax Credit and extend its sunset date to 2031. Virginia has a rich history and beautiful locations that are perfect for film and television, but we often lose productions to neighboring states with more competitive incentives. By raising the tax credit cap to $8.5 million, this bill will help bring more jobs to the Commonwealth, support our local small businesses that service these productions, and keep our economy growing. Please vote YES on HB 400 to help Virginia remain a competitive destination for the film industry.

My name is Elliott Bales and I am the owner of Stalking Horse Productions LLC, a small business in Arlington County, and a professional actor for the last 16 years following a 26 year career in the US Army. I started my business here last year because I know the workforce we have in the film industry here in Virginia. All of the investment in our first film project last year was spent here in Virginia. But as an actor, I have had to work in all of the neighboring states and Georgia because our legislature has failed our industry year after year. The Commonwealth's investment in this industry, which constitutes ~4.5% of the US GDP, has lagged behind nearly every state in the union that has an incentive program. Last year was no exception, as voices in the chamber put this issue off again until this year, resulting in the loss of major productions with businesses and workers taking their tax dollars elsewhere. I have multiple projects in process to produce over the next five years, but without the continuation and growth of this incentive, I will be forced to take it where my investment is welcomed and supported. As an actor, I know this community and it is as professional and competent as they come in any place I have worked. Why then, would our legislature not lead us to surge ahead and seize the opportunity that is so lucartive for our state, returning ~$13 of business activity and taxes for every $1 refunded to productions after their work is done? At a minimum, I urge Virginia's leadership to extend the sunset and extend the tax incentives outlined in HB 400. There will be much more work to do if we actually want to have a share and keep building an industry that is one of the few to have a trade surplus in the US. Let's let America know that Virginia is open for film business where it is more affordable than a NY or LA, and that we intend to grow our market share to rival every other state in the region.

Hello, my name is Katie Culligan, and I am a professional actor and creator based in McLean, Virginia. I am also the founder and moderator of the Mid-Atlantic Screen Artists Forum, a community where screen artists from across the region come together to support one another and speak honestly about the state of our industry. In these conversations, one theme comes up again and again: the greatest obstacle facing Virginia’s actors and filmmakers is not a lack of talent, training, or professionalism—it is the lack of work. So many of us want to build sustainable careers here at home, yet year after year we are forced to watch production leave the state, taking jobs and opportunities with it. This is personal for me and for the many creatives I represent. We live here. We raise our families here. We want to tell stories here. Virginia has everything needed to support a thriving film and television industry—beautiful and diverse locations, strong infrastructure, and a deeply committed creative workforce ready to contribute. I respectfully urge you to support this bill, which would help bring production back to Virginia, create jobs, and allow artists like me to continue doing meaningful work in the community we love.

I am writing in support of bill HB400 to support the growth of the film industry in the beautiful Commonwealth of Virginia. Incentives help to entice studios to produce film projects that provide good paying jobs to Virginian constituents and boost local businesses and the overall economy across the state and in the localities where filming takes place.

Dear Legislators, Please support HB400 Please increase the Motion Picture tax credit. It is the life blood of the film industry in Virginia.

As a friend to several technical and creative film production artists, I have heard tales of the ups and downs of Virginia having missed out on productions that might have filmed largely in our state. While there is great competition for production dollars from not only other states, but other nations, the tax credits are clearly an investment - one that returns dollars input to local economies, potential for creative momentum that builds and gathers more creativity, reputation for skilled, capable crews, and the inviting glow of a friendly economic environment. Dividends that compound over time.

Funding these bills increases the chance of long term film work within the state of VA. The last few years have seen a weak and non competitive television and film incentive for productions to come and invest in this community. With fights for film worker's rights, threats of AI replacing jobs , and conglomerate studio mergers, US film work even more competitive. Productions have been choosing to out source to work to european countries it makes the pool of work even smaller. We have a strong and talented community of film workers and technicians in this state and we are looking forward to your vote to pass this bill and bring us the work we need and want here. Fund the Arts. Fund bringing work to your constituents. Fund economic growth to VA. Thanks for your time.

As an active producer of new media content moving toward a 10-20 million dollar contract currently designated to work on location in Richmond Virginia from December 2028 until December 2031, I respectfully request all involve lawmakers to consider extending the sunset for Virginia tax credits and increase the aggregate as much as possible to encourage further film and television production in the state. Film, television, and new media production provides hundreds of in-state local jobs as well as delivers significant income to local businesses for equipment rentals, catering, accommodations, and other necessary items even down to smaller purchases in wardrobe and make up. Trailer rental, renting of spaces in which to shoot on location, plus revenue involved in being allowed to shoot in public locations are all significant sources of income that should be considered seriously. With the reduction of above the line tax incentives in California, meaning incentives for salaries for actors, stunt people, directors, and producers, many production companies are looking to create projects that can be shot outside of California.. Virginia is of tremendous value for historical purposes to many production companies across the United States. Our particular project is a book adaptation series that takes place in Richmond. We would much prefer to spend our money here in the state than go elsewhere because the tax credits have disappeared. Thank you for your consideration. Jen Furlong, CEO Masterful Person Company

I live in Richmond, and I work in the film industry. My livelihood depends on an increase in these incentives! I am 42 years old, and I have worked in film for nearly 20 years. I need more film opportunities here to survive! Thank you very much for your time.

I would love to have more work opportunities as an actor and artist in Virginia. Virginia is a great state for film production.

Please support the continuation of tax incentives for Virginia production. Film production in Virginia sup[orts not only actors, but also many local businesses that provide food, transportation, porta-potties --- all the makings of a film that don't get acknowledged bythose who view them. Many of these are small businesses in small communities and counties. I grew up in Richmond and went to Mary Washington College (at the time), and have numerous relatives in the Old Dominion, so I have a vested interested in ensuring that film production contributes to the well-being of the State and my family.

Please support HB400 and continue nurturing the film & TV industry in VA. I am an actor based in VA. In addition to income tax from initial production compensation, I also pay taxes on residuals from some productions for years to come.

Good morning. My name is John Judy and I am a long-time professional actor and a resident of Northern Virginia since 2009. I'm writing to urge the passage of bill HB400 in order to incentivize more TV and film production in our commonwealth. I have worked all over the DMV region and, while Maryland and DC are nice, I would much rather see the financial gains from my business be realized where we live. Virginia is a vital artistic region which can compete with any other in the country if given the institutional support to do so. HB400 would provide that support and bring immense benefits to the Virginia TV-Film community and its affiliated industries. Thank-you for your time.

Good morning. My name is John Judy and I am a long-time professional actor and a resident of Northern Virginia since 2009. I'm writing to urge the passage of bill HB400 in order to incentivize more TV and film production in our commonwealth. I have worked all over the DMV region and, while Maryland and DC are nice, I would much rather see the financial gains from my business be realized where we live. Virginia is a vital artistic region which can compete with any other in the country if given the institutional support to do so. HB400 would provide that support and bring immense benefits to the Virginia TV-Film community and its affiliated industries. Thank-you for your time.

As a film worker, my livelihood depends on these bills. Once I turn 26 I will need to be in a union to have healthcare. If union jobs don’t come to Virginia, I’ll be forced to leave my home state.

I love the film industry that I started working in over 40 years ago. I've lived in Hollywood and Orlando, I like Virginia but would move to wherever the show goes. Its a beautiful, diverse and historic place with potential for a wide variety of projects . Milder weather than many other production states or Canada.

I respectfully urge you to support the passage of HB 400, which would create competitive financial incentives for film and television production in the Commonwealth. Strategic investment in this sector would allow Virginia to better leverage its diverse locations, skilled workforce, and existing infrastructure. Despite these advantages, productions frequently choose neighboring states that offer established tax credits. As a working actor and film professional based in Virginia, I have seen how the lack of incentives limits job creation and drives talent out of state. Passage of HB 400 would attract new productions, stimulate economic activity, and support workforce retention, allowing professionals like myself to continue working and investing in the communities where we are rooted.

As a recently graduated film student, it’s very important to have a say in the state of the filmmaking community and to speak up for bills like this that will help mine and others’ livelihoods. Please pass this bill to extend sunset and increase the tax incentive. Sincerely, A struggling freelance filmmaker

Please pass Bill 400 to save film jobs for your constituents. I work in northern VA, Henrico and Richmond when films come to the area. Workers from the greater DMV area also work in Virginia so we are trying to maintain a good regional work base here for NY and Hollywood producers and directors. Extending the tax incentives will ensure future work for local and regional actors, performers and crew. And that ripples throughout the Virginia economy. We need the jobs from film. Please pass 400!

I would love to keep and bring in more commercials, film and tv. Thank you

Please support HB400. Protect and support the future of film production in VA. Families depend on this work.

Along with my fellow actors and film and TV professionals, we ask that you support the passing of HB 400. Virginia has such a versatile landscape for filming of which should be utilized much more than I've witnessed. While some film has come through over the years, I see so much more happening in other states. I've been resisting moving elsewhere for opportunities, but am at a time in my life that this is more doable. I am hoping with tax credits and advantages to shoot in VA, more productions will come to our state and I can remain where I've been rooted with family.

For 35 years I have called Virginia home while working throughout the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic region of the US as a professional film/tv/VoiceOver actor. A large part of what has made that viable has been having the opportunity, on occasion, to work close to home. For me, that's included work on high budget projects Gods and Generals, Minority Report, Dopesick, The Good Lord Bird, Loving, Turn, Iron Jawed Angels, Virus, Lovestruck... but also hundreds of local radio and television commercials, corporate educational films, and short films. The cast and crew base for those "smaller" projects exists because of the opportunities to work on those with higher profiles and larger budgets. As work has migrated to other states over the last 15 years, we've watched friends who were industry stalwarts move away to follow that work. Those of us that remain do so awaiting the return of opportunities to VA. At the center of that expectation is the continued existence of the Commonwealth's film production tax credits. Please vote to extend the sunset of our film incentives program by supporting the passage of HB 400. It's far easier to keep it on the books than it will be to recreate a program that has been allowed to expire. In addition, for 20 years I have been the owner and instructor of The Actors; Place, Inc. where, in that time, over 1500 aspiring actors have come through my doors to learn the technique and business acumen that defines being a professional actor. One of the first questions they ask is "can I really do this, can I really be a professional actor, in VIRGINIA?" Up to this point, the answer has been "yes" because of the potential that film incentives will make VA an economically attractive location for production. Without that potential, without incentives that allow the Commonwealth to compete economically against other states, acting professionally while being based in Virginia is not something I can affirm is possible. Acting is my profession. It is a definable, teachable, skill that not only creates the possibility of generating income for its practitioners, but enriches lives and instills lessons are applicable well beyond the frame of the lens. The loss of film incentives in Virginia means having to bring the advanced level of training that I offer to communities elsewhere - to places where our industry is more likely to thrive. On behalf of my students, my fellow film community members, and myself, please do not allow our incentives to sunset. https://m.imdb.com/name/nm0282436/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_2_nm_2_in_0_q_keith%2520flippen

We are asking for support on this bill as freelancers and creators that live off of these incentives. These incentives keep us alive and in these hard times we need all the help we can get. Please support this bill.

As both an independent creator from Richmond, VA and a freelancer on various projects that have come through the city, our livelihood depends on incentives like these. We need support for this as bringing productions into Virginia creates jobs for filmmakers.

VCU’s cinema program is what kept me in Virginia when bigger film hubs were calling to me. After graduating, the film production work available in my home state kept me here again. If you take away our incentives you take away the livelihood of myself and hundreds of other production workers who love to live and work in our beautiful state. Work has already been scarce due to our incentives not matching those of our direct competitors. To remove our incentives, would wipe us out altogether. If you’re not in the film industry, you may not understand how much money film work brings into the state. When the allure of our tax incentives brings big productions to town they are bringing life changing amounts of money with them. They are hiring Virginia locals, staying in our hotels, catering with local restaurants, buying production supplies from local stores, renting out local businesses, and drawing attention to our state upon the release of the finished films. Film production is good for residents, businesses, and tourism. Please do not force the film production workers of Virginia to move out of state in search of work because we can’t afford to support ourselves here. We live and work in Virginia because we love it here but as everyone in our industry understands, you have to follow the work even if path forces you to leave the place you love. Keeping incentives keeps film professionals working and supports our local economy.

I am a Virginia resident and I am trying my best to work in film and television production full-time in Virginia. Not Georgia, New York, Canada or California, but Virginia, and that would not be possible without Virginia Production Incentives. I would like to encourage your support of HB400 which would increase film tax incentives for VA. I am a member of SAG-AFTRA and I had the opportunity to work on many great productions that have filmed in VA such as TURN: Washington Spies and Wonder Woman 1984. We were also lucky to have Dopesick, Swagger, and GoodLord Bird film here as well which was fantastic and employed many Viriginians as actors and crew. The only way it was possible to entice these projects to VA was because of offering production incentives. The film incentives contribute to our economy in Virginia. The additional monies that pour into the Commonwealth through local business, support restaurants, hotels, dry cleaning to utilities for studios and production offices, the list goes on and on. The incentives in film showcase our State to the world and fuels tourism from the beach to the mountain. Use examples specific to your working experience here, if possible. The film industry also trains lots of people for a high skill industry and helps to develop Virginia’s workforce. The Virginia film industry is developing a bumper crop of skilled crew. This makes Virginia a turnkey operation for filmmakers while also providing mentoring for new filmmakers (from school or just entering the industry) This is an important time in Virginia’s film industry, with the demand for content at an all-time high. I love Virginia and I want to live here, but I have to make the hard choice about whether I should move to a more tax incentive friendly state like Georgia. I hope this letter illustrates the importance of Virginia Production Incentives to not only those who work in film and television, but the many individuals and businesses who provide goods and services well beyond “action!” and “cut!” Regards, Kelly Schwartz McLean, VA

As an actor, continuing to incentivize motion picture filming in the Commonwealth of Virginia brings jobs to our state, and shows the nation and even the world how beautiful Virginia is. Please continue to help this important industry thrive in our state. Thank you.

Good morning, distinguished Committee members, I write to you today in support of an issue that will play a vital role in reinvigorating the Virginia film industry, bringing jobs and revenue back to the Commonwealth. I am one of hundreds of workers in Virginia who benefited directly – and indirectly – in years past from Virginia’s support of television and movie production. Passing HB 598, the Film Industry Communities Zone; Local Designation legislation, is critical to the future of Virginia’s economy and helping workers like me. Consider my own story as a camera assistant. A few years ago, movies and television productions routinely came to Virginia. People like me enjoyed well-paying jobs that benefited ourselves and our communities in Virginia. But much has changed since Virginia’s film incentives lapsed. Workers like me must routinely leave Virginia to find work and practice our trade. Tonight, for instance, I am writing this while working in North Carolina, where I just wrapped a day of film production for a Netflix series. While I have been fortunate to still live in Richmond, many of my colleagues have been forced to move to North Carolina and other states to make a living. Skilled artists and technicians who love our state have moved away reluctantly – to follow the work and earn a living. This is a loss for Virginia on many different levels. There is an immediate economic impact. For example, today I saw hundreds of workers in North Carolina – not Virginia – earning good money and spending it in the local community. These are jobs and revenue that a few years ago could have been in Virginia. With this proposed legislation, this well-paying industry could once again return. Movie and film production could become much more common in the Commonwealth. The revenue impact of movie production snowballs throughout a community and the state. The impacts are far-reaching. Beyond tax issues, the potential tourism advertisement that comes from Virginia film goes completely muted without an incentivized reason to bring productions here. A lack of a visible film output in Virginia misses valuable opportunities to bring more public attention to the Commonwealth, with real world economic impact from both tourism and industry. The industry also directly drives the livelihoods, wages, and healthcare of those workers. Film production work often leads to union participation, which in turn subsidizes employee healthcare. However, union healthcare is dependent on participation. As industry opportunities diminish in the Commonwealth, film workers face rising costs of public healthcare options or risk losing their healthcare entirely. Healthcare achieved through union production lessens the burden of public cost health on state taxpayers while at the same time helping Virginia workers. To tie these thoughts together, tonight I write to you from North Carolina as one single member out of a production crew of hundreds of people. Crews of this size earn impressive wages, which are taxed by the state before they are spent on goods and services in the local economy. Instead of this happening in North Carolina, this should be happening in Virginia – and this legislation can help make that happen.

I’d like to ask for your support on HB400. As a union actor in the western half of the Commonwealth of Virginia there are very few opportunities to work on film and television projects. Our beautiful state has so many possible filming locations, from the highest mountains to rolling foothills and beachfront locations, but without the tax incentives major productions simply won’t choose to do business here. From historical battlegrounds to modern and futuristic/sci-fi production styles, Virginia could be bringing in so many more film and television jobs. Please support HB400 so we can start participating more in the industry and benefitting from these larger scale productions.

As a Director of Photography within the Film Industry for the past 40 years, I have worked on numerous films almost entirely shot elsewhere. Georgia, New Jersey, New Mexico, United Kingdom, South Africa to name a few. The primary reason being the tax incentives afforded to the production companies. 99% of the crews are always locals whom pay their mortgages, car payments, etc. There is no question that Virginia would be a sought after location as proven in the past, we just need to make it more inviting financially.

As a Virginia-based freelancer with 25 years in the film industry, I ask for your support to increase and extend the state's motion picture tax credits. I also own a small business that supports the motion picture industry (camera rentals), and I have seen a sharp decline in production over the past few years. A large part of this is because of competition from neighboring states that have a much larger incentive package. Virginia has incredible locations, professional crew, and all of the infrastructure and resources needed to make any scale production a success. Now we just need to level the playing field by increasing and extending our incentive program.

Please support HB400. The film industry in Virginia is brimming with talent eager to work in their home state and brimming with potential for quality films and television who would like to film here but have to go elsewhere to make the budget work. Virginia is losing business to neighboring states. The film industry spends top dollar on hotels, restaurants, lumber, and so many other small local businesses, helping all levels of the economy. Please extend the sunset and increase tax incentives in the Virginia film industry.

Please support HB400 to extend the sunset of our Virginia Tax Incentives program. Without this extension we will lose the industry and our livelihoods. Full stop. Our contributions to local small businesses and our ability to educate the new class of college graduates in this industry disappear. My career and my husband's career will run away to neighboring states who have these programs. Please help us keep our jobs! Thank you for your time.

I work in the film industry and my livelihood depends on the boost these incentives give our industry. Please support it! Thank you!

Hello and thanks for the opportunity to comment on HB400. I live here in Richmond VA and have worked in the film industry since 2008. I love my job and the talented crew members I have the privilege to work with. It takes all kinds to make a movie or television program. Sadly I hear too many of our talented workforce talking of relocating or getting out of the industry due to lack of work. Please support Virginias current and future workers by supporting HB 400. Virginia has so much to offer! Thank you for your time and consideration.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on HB 400. I live in Richmond, VA and have worked on motion picture productions for twenty years alongside hundreds of hard-working local technicians, tradesmen, artists, coordinators, assistants, drivers, office staff, and other workers. Sadly, our once thriving industry is now stagnant because Virginia can’t compete with nearby states. Jobs, a talented workforce, recent graduates and dollars that could have been spent here are forced to go elsewhere. It’s disheartening when a movie or TV show that is set in Virginia is filmed in a nearby state because that state offers more sustainable tax credits. Virginia has EVERYTHING other states have (great crew, stunning locations, supportive small businesses, etc.); the only thing we lack is the legislation to support our industry. Please help put Virginia BACK on the list of economically viable places to bring film and television production. Please support Virginia’s current AND future workers and businesses by supporting HB 400. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Please consider extending the tax incentives for the state of Virginia. We need to bring back tv shows and features to this state. We have a rich community of crew members who depend on these jobs for their livelihood. Plus, the filmmaking industry brings quite a bit of money to the local economy for housing, food, and local entertainment.

Please support HB400. This bill is essential to maintaining the film industry in the Commonwealth for all of the film industry workers who rely on this industry for our livelihoods. This bill supports us- everyday Virginians making a living and the local small businesses who see a boon to their profits. Thank you for considering this. Sincerely, Alicia Ayoub Location Manager and Scout

Chair Hernandez, The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce supports the following bills: HB1135 HB1133 HB946 HB504 The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce opposes the following bill: - HB897 Thank you for your time. Kind Regards, Theo Stamatis Government Relations Manager Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce 703.314.3519 tstamatis@loudounchamber.org

HB 1135, HB 1351, HB 188, HB 243, HB 334, HB 341, HB 378, hb 550, HB 557, HB 563, HB 720, HB 784, HB 897, HB 919, HB 946, HB 959, HB 961, HB 978, SB 400, SB 763. I oppose all of these bills.

My name is Kristen Daugherty. I grew up in Virginia and love it here. I’ve been working in film and TV since 2015, getting two Bachelor’s degrees and a Master’s degree in between. I’m an Independent Producer and Production Manager, seeking to bring projects to audiences that empower, inspire, and move people in the way that movies and shows can do. The entertainment industry, itself, is known to have incredible impact on its surrounding territories and economy because of all the external businesses that just one single project can support. I support HB400 because it will not only help grow Virginia’s film industry and its economy, but also because I am proud to be from Virginia. This bill will allow projects to come to or originate in Virginia and give our filmmakers the ability to work and thrive in our economy. Without it, projects will choose other states to work in and our workforce, and all of its economic and cultural contributions, will have to follow the work. I hope to show the prowess of our state, capabilities of its people, and all that Virginia has to offer. I hope to employee people and bring wealth to small businesses. I support HB400.

I am writing in support of HB641 bill for The Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act so that our outdoor spaces will be protected and properly funded. If more data centers are to be built in Virginia, they must to everything in their power to protect the environment they are negatively affecting.

I am writing to express my strong support for House Bill 641, which would ensure that data centers contribute fairly to the environmental protections Virginia urgently needs. Virginia’s rapid expansion of data centers brings significant economic growth, but it also comes with real environmental costs — including increased energy demand, water use, and impacts on surrounding communities and ecosystems. HB 641 is an important step toward balancing innovation with responsibility by directing new revenue toward protecting our natural resources and addressing environmental strain. This issue is deeply personal to me. I live along the James River and spend time in the James River Parks System every week with my young daughter. These parks and waterways are not just scenic amenities — they are part of our daily lives, our health, and our shared Virginia heritage. Protecting them for future generations must be a priority as development accelerates across the Commonwealth. House Bill 641 represents a commonsense approach: if data centers benefit from Virginia’s infrastructure and communities, they should also help fund the environmental safeguards necessary to sustain them. Thank you for your leadership and for considering my support. I hope you will vote in favor of HB 641.

I ask that you vote for HB641 to support Virginia's beautiful wild spaces that benefit all Virginians.

Please support this bill, help us continue to enjoy the great outdoors!

Virginia would benefit greatly from this bill and I support it! Virginia State Parks not only enrich the lives of Virginians like myself, they also draw tourism and, therefore support our economy! Please pass this bill!

Here in Virginia, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to recreate outdoors on public lands such as our state parks, natural forests, lakes, and rivers. Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act (HB641) would provide much-needed funding to keep these resources available for all to enjoy. Please protect our lands by supporting this bill!

I support this bill. We’re lucky to live where we do. This bill would greatly benefit us in the Commonwealth. The outdoors is vital to our physical health, mental health, and to our local environment. We need to protect our beautiful outdoor spaces at all costs.

State parks absorb pressure that would otherwise land on roads, healthcare systems, and local governments. They protect watersheds that supply drinking water, provide low-cost recreation for families who can’t afford private alternatives, and sustain rural economies through tourism, jobs, and small businesses. Stable, dedicated funding means parks can plan responsibly instead of deferring maintenance until it becomes an emergency. As a resident who hikes, camps, and raises children here, I want them to inherit trails that are safe, accessible, and resilient.

I ask that you support this bill to give help to our State Park and other outdoor facilities. Thank you very much! Erica Vincent

I respectfully request that you provide the funds necessary to provide continuous financing to support outdoor spaces for the public.

I ask your support HB 641, the Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act, which would provide dedicated funding to protect our lands and waters, improve public access to the outdoors, and invest in parks, trails , and public lands. As a physical therapist I know how important physical exercise is and Virginia's public lands offer so many opportunities for movement and healthy habits outside in nature! Thank you for your consideration

I am a Trail Ambassador representing an amazing nonprofit organization called Girls Who Hike Virginia. As a proud member of this organization for the past 4 years and a lifelong lover of the outdoors I support the passing of HB641. Our State Parks provide much needed spaces for recreation. I have witnessed first hand what the outdoors and recreation can do for a person’s mental, physical, and emotional health. Today, more than ever, our society needs recreation to keep healthy and our local state parks provide the foundation to do so. A healthy person participates in a healthier community and breeds a healthier society. Help us keep the our spaces in state parks to maintain our health and fellowship with the outdoors.

I strongly support HB 641, the Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act, because it provides a responsible and forward-looking way to invest in the long-term conservation of Virginia’s natural lands. By dedicating funding from large-scale data center development to land preservation, this bill helps protect forests, farmland, wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation spaces that are vital to our communities and economy. HB 641 ensures that as Virginia grows, we also safeguard the natural resources that define our Commonwealth and enhance quality of life for current and future generations.

I am writing today to ask you to support Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act (HB641), which would provide dedicated funding to protect our lands and waters, improve public access to the outdoors, and invest in parks, trails, and public lands. We must take action to protect valuable natural and historic resources for current and future generations before they are permanently lost. HB641 would address the conservation and outdoor recreation needs of the Commonwealth and help more Virginians access and enjoy the great outdoors. Please support this bill!

Our outdoor spaces are vital to the health and wellbeing of all communities in Virginia and should be protected at all cost.

I support this bill to provide more funding to our outdoor spaces. More access and funding for the outdoors benefits everyone. This bill would help support that. Thanks for your time and all you do!

This bill is common sense decency for our Commonwealth. Need I remind y'all what a commonwealth means? It means you are here to serve us. We are never going to let you forget that. Virginia has faced an unprecedented exploitation of resources in the last five years in a rapid scale. The last time this land was destructed in such a giant way, was back in the horrid colonial times when the disgraceful King of England had the sacred indigenous land reshaped for his profits. At least we can sow, harvest, and eat food from the result of that loss of wild lands which that greed once caused... Now, I am a farmer so I hope you all realize this, but some surely don't: Data centers will not feed us in the future, especially not, if they take most of our clean fresh water with low PPM of PFAS and just evaporate it. Look at it this way! You'll be a little less complicit to evil if you vote for the VA Great Outdoors Act. A tax on data centers to benefit nature is your way of enabling a little less evil than just letting the data centers keep on stealing our state's income. We the people are paying the price through the millions in tax breaks they have already gotten away with due to your negligence and probably corruption. We are going to need a lot of money for public lands when all the byproduct problems begin to multiply due to the horrible unregulated corporate industries y'all already allowed with very little research or guardrails to come into this state ( like PFAS via low industrial regulations and biosolids). Please, stop enabling the raping of Virginia. Yes. Rape. That is genuinely what will happen if you vote no on the VA Great Outdoors Act. I can say that... because I was raped at age 13 and I am not afraid, like our own government is, to call out rapists when I see them.

Support the amazing outdoor spaces VA has to offer!

This bill is common sense decency for our Commonwealth. Need I remind y'all what a commonwealth means? It means you are here to serve us. We are never going to let you forget that. Virginia has faced an unprecedented exploitation of resources in the last five years in a rapid scale. The last time this land was destructed in such a giant way, was back in the horrid colonial times when the disgraceful King of England had the sacred indigenous land reshaped for his profits. At least we can sow, harvest, and eat food from the result of that loss of wild lands which that greed once caused... Now, I am a farmer so I hope you all realize this, but some surely don't: Data centers will not feed us in the future, especially not, if they take most of our clean fresh water with low PPM of PFAS and just evaporate it. Look at it this way! You'll be a little less complicit to evil if you vote for the VA Great Outdoors Act. A tax on data centers to benefit nature is your way of enabling a little less evil than just letting the data centers keep on stealing our state's income. We the people are paying the price through the millions in tax breaks they have already gotten away with due to your negligence and probably corruption. We are going to need a lot of money for public lands when all the byproduct problems begin to multiply due to the horrible unregulated corporate industries y'all already allowed with very little research or guardrails to come into this state ( like PFAS via low industrial regulations and biosolids). Please, stop enabling the raping of Virginia. Yes. Rape. That is genuinely what will happen if you vote no on the VA Great Outdoors Act. I can say that... because I was raped at age 13 and I am not afraid, like our own government is, to call out rapists when I see them.

Our Virginia State Park system is a gift for ALL Virginians. What other state in this country can tell its residents that each and every one of them has a beautiful recreational opportunity at a VSP within an hour of their house?! Please pass this bill, keep our parks funded consistently and reliably, keep growing our park system so that more and more of us can enjoy them. Thank you.

I strongly support HB 641 because Virginia’s natural spaces and outdoor rec opportunities are worth investing in. This bill would create a dedicated fund for conserving parks, trails, wildlife corridors, and open land — stuff literally everyone benefits from. It ensures that huge data centers, which take up tons of land and resources, contribute to protecting our environment and outdoor access. More funding for nature means cleaner water, safer trails, stronger local tourism, and better outdoor spaces for current and future generations. Please move HB 641 forward! 

If northern Virginia is going to host the world’s data infrastructure, that growth should directly pay for protecting Virginia’s land! I support this bill that invests in preserving what makes Virginia a great place to live—now and for future generations.

The monies generated from this tax will be essential in maintaining the preservation and protection of lands within our state parks and natural areas. These funds will help ensure that current Virginia residents and future generations are able to get outdoors and be able to enjoy our parks and natural areas.

I support HB641 Virginia's Great Outdoors Act. It is crucial for the health of Virginians and will increase revenue for our Commonwealth.

Virginia's Great Outdoor Act is a crucial piece of legislation for the outdoor spaces our beautifully diverse state has to offer. I volunteer with a nonprofit, Girls Who Hike Virginia, that aims to connect, educate, and empower women in the outdoors. As the main coordinator in Girls Who Hike Virginia's Adopt-a-Trail partnership with Virginia State Parks, I am seeing firsthand how desperately our parks need help. At each of the 20 Virginia State Parks that we have active Adopt-a-Trail partnerships with, the Chief Rangers of Visitor Experience and Volunteer Coordinators constantly speak of how grateful they are we're there to help fill the gap in staffing available to consistently maintenance the trails that millions of people visit every year. Not only do Virginia State Parks have a huge economic impact on the areas of the state they serve (see attachment), they provide outdoor spaces for health and wellness benefits as well. Being outside in a safe, well cared for space like our Virginia State Parks can reduce stress and anxiety, boost Vitamin D, and build social connections that are so incredibly important for mental well-being. Data centers across the state are already contributing to municipalities building new schools. Why shouldn't they contribute to the outdoor spaces in their communities as well? Please, please, please support HB641! The attached file is an economic impact study from 2024 on the impact Virginia State Parks make on local economies.

I’m writing in support of HB641. Funding our state parks is a no-brainer. Money invested in our parks benefits all Virginians by creating and maintaining beautiful, well kept spaces that encourage health recreation and brings in tourism. As a state park enthusiast and a hiking club ambassador I ask that this bill be passed.

Active Prince William and the Greater Prince William Trails Coalition strongly SUPPORT HB641 because state investments in land conservation and outdoor recreation infrastructure and programs are vital to Virginia's economic vitality and quality of life. We especially support allocating $25M/yr to DCR to improve recreational trails and $25M/yr to VDOT's State Trails Office to advance long-distance multiuse trails ............................................................................................................................................................................................. Virginia has long under-invested in land conservation and outdoor recreation infrastructure because it has lacked a dedicated and dependable funding source for these vital activities. These are cost-effective investments that will pay for themselves through greater state visitation and tourism and increased jobs in the recreation and hospitality sectors. ............................................................................................................................................................................................ HB641 would establish a new data center land preservation tax at the rate of $3 per square foot of each data center facility footprint (with small facilities exempted) and would allocate at least $250 million/year of the revenues for various land protection and preservation purposes. ............................................................................................................................................................................................. Reasons to Support HB641: ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 1) Taxing the land covered by data center buildings follows a proven model for funding conservation. For example, the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund is derived primarily from federal off-shore oil and gas leases. 2) Data centers have a nexus with land and water; not just the buildings themselves but the infrastructure needed across VA to support them. 3) This is a manageable cost of doing business for these multi-billion-dollar companies. 4) All Virginians are paying for VA data centers, but only those in the host localities benefit from the local tax revenues. This is a way to spread the benefit of hosting this industry to all, particularly in regions that will likely never be able to or want to host data centers. 5) Virginia Great Outdoors Act would help pay for park, trail, and conservation projects throughout VA, enhancing quality of life and attracting businesses and visitors. ............................................................................................................................................................................................. Thank you for considering this much-needed and long-delayed initiative.

I strongly support HB641 and Virginia’s investment in shared-use paths and trail infrastructure. Across the Commonwealth, communities along existing trail corridors have seen clear economic, transportation, and quality-of-life benefits. Trails support local tourism, encourage outdoor activity, and provide safer options for people to walk and bike. In the New River Valley, a major regional project underway is connecting the Huckleberry Trail to trail systems in Radford and Roanoke. This connection would link communities, support local economies, and create a continuous corridor that benefits both recreation and everyday transportation. The New River Valley Bicycle Association represents Blacksburg, Radford, and Christiansburg, where much of this trail network is located, and we regularly see the positive impact trails have on our region. HB641 would help Virginia keep pace with other states that are investing in trail infrastructure as a smart, long-term strategy. These investments strengthen communities, improve safety, and enhance access across the Commonwealth.

I am writing to ask you to support HB641, both for its strong economic return on investment and for the safety of people who walk and bike. My friends, many others, and I bicycle throughout Virginia, staying and dining in communities such as Roanoke, Pulaski, Galax, Farmville, and Danville. Other states are investing in facilities that promote bicycle tourism, and it is past time for Virginia to make similar investments. Infrastructure such as the New River Trail not only supports tourism but also provides a safe place to walk and ride while enjoying the outdoors in Virginia. Near my home in Alexandria, I bicycle for transportation—for example, to get to medical appointments—and HB641’s proposed trail funding would enable VDOT to fix broken connections, including those in Fairfax County’s bicycle network.

My name is Gem Bingol, I live in Leesburg and I support HB641 and HB897 and ask for your support as well. Thank you.

My name is Kaleigh Leager, and I am the Assistant Manager, Mid-Atlantic States for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF). I am writing to you today in support of House Bill 641 (HB 641) – Great Outdoors Act. The passage of this legislation will create a conservation tax on data centers 25,000 ft2 or larger, which will provide crucial funding for the Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) to carry out their vitally important mission of conserving fish, wildlife, and their habitats, that are not only enjoyed and utilized by sportsmen and women, but all residents and visitors of the Commonwealth.

As an organization focused on protecting safe movement pathways for both wildlife and people, Wildlands Network supports the Virginia Great Outdoors Act and the proposed $1 million for wildlife crossings and corridors. Wildlife-vehicle collisions are a preventable and costly threat to Virginians. The Commonwealth consistently ranks in the top 10 nationally for the most crashes, which cost the state over $533 million annually, averaging $60,000 per large-animal collision in emergency response, medical care, vehicle damage, insurance, and roadway impacts. Strategically placed wildlife crossings dramatically reduce these costs. A pilot project along I-64 reduced deer collisions by 96 percent and paid for itself in under two years. Few infrastructure investments deliver comparable return on investment in such a short time. Wildlife corridors also protect the value of prior state investments. Virginia has invested heavily in land conservation, farmland preservation, public lands, and habitat restoration. Without connectivity, these efforts function as isolated assets. Corridors allow them to operate as a system, reducing roadway conflicts, limiting future mitigation costs, and preserving ecosystem services that would otherwise require expensive solutions. Allocating state funds for crossings also improves infrastructure resilience and unlocks federal funding. Larger underpasses and culverts, which allow for wildlife movement, are less prone to blockage or failure during extreme weather. Dedicated funding in the VGOA will enable Virginia to implement shovel-ready projects and compete more effectively for federal transportation and resilience dollars. I urge the Committee to support the Virginia Great Outdoors Act and the $1 million allocation for wildlife crossings and corridors. This is a fiscally responsible investment that reduces long-term costs, strengthens infrastructure, and maximizes the impact of existing conservation funding.

Wild Virginia would like to express our support for HB 641: Virginia's Great Outdoors Act. In addition to helping fund a backlog of maintenance for our state owned parks and conservation lands, HB 641 also aims to direct funds towards critical wildlife corridors and associated wildlife crossing infrastructure priorities outlined in the existing Wildlife Corridor Action Plan. These projects ensure safety for motorists and wildlife in a state ranked within the top 10 nationally for wildlife vehicle collisions. As a former state agency wildlife biologist and land manager of over 9 years in SC and NC, I can assure you the funds created through HB 641 would be welcomed by the state agencies who face limited resources regularly. HB 641 ensures public lands can be enjoyed to their fullest extent now and for generations to come. When our public lands are managed to their fullest potential wildlife benefit, as they utilize these lands as part of their home ranges in an otherwise very fragmented landscape. Given these reasons and more, Wild Virginia respectfully urges you to support HB 641, thank you.

Environment Virginia is a non-profit organization with thousands of members across Virginia. Robust, dedicated funding for conservation and outdoor recreation is a top priority for us and our members. We thank Delegate Krizek for introducing HB 641, the Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act, and express our support for it. Virginia is home to incredible natural beauty and endless opportunities to have fun outdoors. Unfortunately, current funding for conservation is severely lacking. State parks alone face a backlog of $388 million in maintenance projects and many conservation programs face unstable funding through the state budget’s general fund. In order for Virginia to experience the full benefits of its conservation efforts and state park system, consistent funding is needed. Well funded parks and preservation programs are essential to maintaining trails and facilities, funding educational programs, attracting visitors and protecting more places. Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act is the solution. It will provide historic funding for a range of conservation programs including state park operations, deferred maintenance on public lands, the Virginia Land Conservation Foundation, wildlife crossings, trails, new public lands and more. More funding for conservation means more protected wildlife, more lightly-touched, iconic landscapes and more opportunities to get out and experience the great outdoors. It also means strengthening the immeasurable benefits of protecting nature, including clean air, clean water, healthy people and a strong economy. To secure funding for these programs, this bill creates a new tax on data centers of $3 per square foot per year. The data center industry has significant impacts on land and water use, and this will require them to support conservation of the land and natural resources they consume. Significant, dedicated funding is essential to protecting and improving Virginia’s parks and natural ecosystems. We urge you to support HB 641 and invest in conservation so that current and future generations can continue to experience Virginia’s great outdoors.

Abjectly opposed to ANY new taxes for ANY reason. We have an overabundance of money in this state as it is and are taxed enough.

HB 1135, HB 1351, HB 188, HB 243, HB 334, HB 341, HB 378, hb 550, HB 557, HB 563, HB 720, HB 784, HB 897, HB 919, HB 946, HB 959, HB 961, HB 978, SB 400, SB 763. I oppose all of these bills.

HB 1135, HB 1351, HB 188, HB 243, HB 334, HB 341, HB 378, hb 550, HB 557, HB 563, HB 720, HB 784, HB 897, HB 919, HB 946, HB 959, HB 961, HB 978, SB 400, SB 763. I oppose all of these bills.

HB 1135, HB 1351, HB 188, HB 243, HB 334, HB 341, HB 378, hb 550, HB 557, HB 563, HB 720, HB 784, HB 897, HB 919, HB 946, HB 959, HB 961, HB 978, SB 400, SB 763. I oppose all of these bills.

Chair Hernandez, The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce supports the following bills: HB1135 HB1133 HB946 HB504 The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce opposes the following bill: - HB897 Thank you for your time. Kind Regards, Theo Stamatis Government Relations Manager Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce 703.314.3519 tstamatis@loudounchamber.org

I'm Nathan Soules, a founding member of Zero Carbon Virginia, and I live in Leesburg, VA. ZCV supports HB897, HB1132, and HB1133. The growing impact of data centers on our grid is too large to ignore. As the JLARC study on data centers found, it would be “very difficult” to build enough electric infrastructure to support unconstrained demand for data centers. HB897 leverages the tax exemption given to data centers to incentivize use of clean energy. Replacing diesel and gas generators with cleaner alternatives reduces greenhouse gas emissions and local impacts on noise and air quality. Requiring purchase of RECs helps Virginia stay on track with the goals of the VCEA’s RPS. Efficiency standards will help reduce electricity demand. Last year, many of the clean energy incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act were rolled back. HB1132 and HB1133 both help to mitigate the loss of those federal incentives. This helps Virginia continue to meet its VCEA targets and preserve jobs in the growing solar and energy storage industries. Investment in these low cost technologies will ultimately lower costs for rate payers. Residential solar and energy storage can reduce the need for additional electric transmission and generation, particularly if coordinated with a virtual power plant. Utility-scale solar and energy storage are critical for the transition away from fossil fuel generation.

My name is Gem Bingol, I live in Leesburg and I support HB641 and HB897 and ask for your support as well. Thank you.

Data centers have taken extensive advantage of the sales and use tax exemption. We can’t afford to keep subsidizing them as they use up our power and water. This bill requires the data centers to give something back and add to the grid to get the tax credit. There are multiple technologies available to these data centers, including energy storage and renewables, even storage of biofuels, which is not fossil carbon. This will help stop the tax giveaway and benefit all Virginia families

Please see the attached submission in opposition to HB 900 and HB978 regarding sales tax on self storage units.

Chairman Sullivan and Members of the Subcommittee:   Mid-Atlantic NATO, the organization representing movie theater owners and operators in Virginia, opposes HB 900 and HB 978 in their current forms.  While any new tax on theater admissions will have a chilling effect on sales, applying state and local sales tax to admissions would be particularly onerous to theaters and other entertainment venues in localities that already levy hefty admissions taxes.  As an example, the City of Williamsburg charges an admissions tax of 10% on ticket sales.  It also has one of the highest combined state and local sales tax rates in the Commonwealth of 7%.  If ticket sales were subjected to state and local sales taxes on top of the admissions tax, the effective tax rate on an admissions ticket in Williamsburg would be 17%!  This is significantly higher than the combined tax rates on admissions anywhere else in the country.  Either an exemption or a credit against sales tax collections where an admissions tax has been separately collected would be an appropriate remedy to address this concern so that movie theaters and other entertainment venues aren’t subjected to double taxation under this bill.  Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Please see the attached testimony.

Please see the attachment

Dear Chairperson Sullivan and Members of Subcommittee #3: On behalf of the Council On State Taxation (COST), I appreciate the opportunity to submit comments regarding H.B. 900, legislation that would substantially expand Virginia’s sales and use tax base to include digital personal property, digital services, and a wide range of taxable services. COST supports efforts to modernize state tax systems; however, I write to strongly urge the Subcommittee to include broad business‑to‑business (B2B) exemptions in H.B. 900. As drafted, the bill would violate fundamental principles of sound tax policy by imposing substantial taxes on business inputs, distorting economic decision‑making, and creating cascading tax burdens that ultimately harm Virginia’s competitiveness.

This letter is submitted on behalf of the DASH Advisory Committee (DAC), an independent committee of Alexandria residents and regular transit users who advocate for Alexandria Transit (DASH). This letter provides our support for HB900, which advances solutions for transit funding in Northern Virginia. For DASH riders and the broader Alexandria community, HB900 represents a critical opportunity to secure the funding needed to maintain a state of good repair, maintain reliable service, modernize our fleet, and expand service to meet growing demand. We strongly urge the House Finance Subcommittee #3 to recommend reporting this bill. Thank you for your consideration of this important legislation.

My name is Jessica Mott of Arlington VA. I support HB978 and HB900, which would levy the sales and use tax on digital and other specified services as well as digital property. Obviously these bills differ in details and would need to be reconciled, but both proposals are commendable. JLARC and other studies show that Virginia's tax system needs modernization to reflect our "new" economy. Virginia currently levies taxes on fewer types of services than 40 other states, even though residents now spend twice as much on services as on goods. Virginia taxes lawnmowers but not lawn services, for example. Although in general sales and use taxes are not necessarily economically "progressive" in impact, (i.e. impose higher taxes on those who are richer), most of the specified services proposed to be taxed are discretionary, which means that overall, the proposed bill's impact would be more progressive than many sales taxes. I am pleased that the HB978’s proposed exemption of sales tax on food and personal hygiene products would help offset impact on essential goods, while HB900 would help offset the tax impact by decreasing the overall existing sales tax rate for goods. I also support the bill's proposed allocation of the state portion of these taxes for transportation and, in the case of HB900, schooling (especially high-need populations). These investments are important to the long-term economic well-being of our state.

On behalf of Chamber of Progress, a tech industry association supporting public policies to build a more inclusive society in which all people benefit from technological advancements, I respectfully urge you to oppose two provisions of HB 900: the new per-transaction delivery tax in Northern Virginia and the tax on business-to-business digital services. Together, these provisions would raise costs on Virginia families both directly, through a new $0.20 tax on every delivery, and indirectly, by taxing the digital business inputs that power Virginia's economy and passing those costs through to consumers.

To the Chair and Members of the Committee, My name is Kenji Hisatsune, and I am the owner and operator of Hanabi Ramen in Arlington, Virginia. I am writing to respectfully, strongly oppose a proposed delivery tax. Before opening Hanabi Ramen, I spent decades working in the technology and gaming industry but after retiring in 2016, I decided to pursue a lifelong dream of opening my own restaurant. I chose Arlington, Virginia because I believed there was an opportunity to bring authentic, high-quality Japanese ramen to the community. Since opening in 2017, I have been deeply involved in every aspect of the business, from recipe development to staff training. Hanabi Ramen employs 14 people, and maintaining quality and consistency requires significant time, care, and investment. Staffing remains one of the greatest challenges we face, and every additional cost makes it harder to operate sustainably. We partner with DoorDash, which accounts for roughly 10% of our sales. While my passion remains serving guests in person, delivery plays an important role in reaching new and repeat customers and supporting overall business stability. It also helps customers who may not be able to dine in regularly still enjoy our food. The delivery tax this committee is considering would add another financial burden on both customers and restaurants. In an industry with thin margins, even small increases in cost can have outsized effects. Delivery taxes risk discouraging customers from ordering and reducing revenue that supports local jobs and small businesses. Virginia’s restaurant community thrives when policies support, not penalize, innovation and accessibility. I respectfully urge the committee to reject a delivery tax and consider the real-world impact it would have on small, local owner-operated businesses like mine. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Kenji Hisatsune Owner, Hanabi Ramen

To the Chair and Members of the Committee, My name is Masoud Shoja, and I am a Virginia small business owner who has worked in the restaurant industry for more than 15 years. My family opened our first restaurant in 1997, and today we operate more than a dozen small businesses, including Reston Kabob, Grill Kabob, Ivy by the Lake, and Eat More Taco. I am a part of the fabric of our state’s small business community and I am proud to submit this testimony in opposition to a proposed delivery tax. Working alongside my family has been one of the most rewarding parts of my life. We built our businesses from the ground up, starting with very little, and over time we have grown by reinvesting in our communities. I have watched Virginia grow, and I am proud to be part of that growth. I have also been in this industry long enough to remember what it was like before delivery platforms existed. In the past, restaurants were limited by geography. Today, delivery partners allow us to reach customers 15 to 20 miles away, something that was simply not possible before. Delivery from apps like DoorDash now accounts for nearly 35% of our total orders, and it plays a major role in sustaining our businesses. Beyond expanding our customer base, delivery platforms like DoorDash have also given us valuable branding and promotional tools. They help new customers discover our restaurants and keep existing customers coming back. This is especially important in an industry with tight margins and intense competition. The delivery tax this Committee is considering would directly harm our bottom line by adding yet another cost to an already challenging industry. Restaurants are still facing rising food prices, labor shortages, and higher operating expenses. Adding a tax to delivery orders would either reduce demand or force businesses or customers to absorb costs they cannot afford. Ultimately, delivery taxes do not fall on large corporations, they fall on small business owners like me, workers like those we employ, and the customers who keep our doors open. I respectfully ask the committee to consider the impact this policy would have on local restaurants like mine and to reject a delivery tax. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Masoud Shoja

See attached.

To the Chair and Members of the Committee, My name is Mohammad Ali from Northern Virginia, and I am the owner of America’s Best Wings. I opened my first location five years ago, and by 2025, we had grown to six locations across the state. I am proud of that growth, and I am submitting this testimony to express my strong opposition to a proposed delivery tax. Like many Virginia businesses, my company has evolved over time to meet the growing demand for online food delivery. Today, we rely heavily on consumers ordering food for delivery - both through third-party platforms and directly from our stores. Delivery is not a luxury for our customers: it is an essential service. Delivery plays a particularly important role during inclement or unpredictable weather. Many of our customers choose delivery because they have families at home, safety concerns, or other reasons that make driving difficult or unsafe. In my view, more delivery drivers on the road often means fewer individual cars overall, contributing to safer streets. Even in good weather, delivery provides access to food for people who are unable to drive due to age, disability, or other circumstances. What I love most about being a business owner is being able to provide quality, affordable food to my community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when the cost of chicken rose dramatically, I made the decision not to raise prices. I did not want to shift that burden onto my customers, many of whom were already struggling. That is why I was upset when I learned about the new proposed delivery tax the legislature is considering. If this tax is imposed on consumers, it will discourage people from ordering online and hurt small businesses like mine. Most retailers today rely on delivery as part of their business model. Many have downsized their physical footprints specifically to serve customers through delivery. Imposing a new tax punishes businesses and consumers who have adapted to meet modern demands and needs. In this economy, consumers are already penny-pinching. Adding another fee simply to raise state revenue creates unnecessary hardship. With millions of Virginians ordering delivery, this tax would take tens of millions of dollars out of consumers’ pockets – money that could otherwise support local businesses and families. I respectfully urge the committee to reject a delivery tax and to consider the unintended consequences it would have on safety, affordability, and small businesses across Virginia. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Mohammad Ali Owner, America’s Best Wings

Please see attached testimony from the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments in support of HB900 and dedicated funding for Metro.

Delegate Watts and Delegate Sullivan, Please see comments attached regarding HB 900 and HB 978. Thank you. Respectfully submitted, Daniel Bryant Self Storage Association

Dear Chairman Sullivan, and Members of the Subcommittee, I am submitting for the record, comments regarding HB 900 and HB978. Thank you for your time and consideration. Zane Kerby President and CEO, American Society of Travel Advisors

Abjectly opposed to ANY new taxes for ANY reason. We have an overabundance of money in this state as it is and are taxed enough.

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by.

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by. "

HB 1135, HB 1351, HB 188, HB 243, HB 334, HB 341, HB 378, hb 550, HB 557, HB 563, HB 720, HB 784, HB 897, HB 919, HB 946, HB 959, HB 961, HB 978, SB 400, SB 763. I oppose all of these bills.

I am writing to oppose the outrageous bills being discussed to limit/restrict Virginians Constitutional rights to keep and bear arms. Nonsensical limitations on weapons type and magazine capacity will have zero impact in reducing violent crime in our State. That I can state with authority having spent 30 years in law enforcement. Taxing firearms and ammunition only prevents our poorest residents from personal Defence and could be viewed as racist by many. Respectfully request that you come to your senses and focus on areas that will benefit and not harm citizens of the Commonwealth.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I live in Southwestern Virginia and I stand firmly against all these Bills the Democrats are trying to pass, especially my 2nd Amendment rights. I am a law abiding citizen with a concealed weapons permit. I use to work for the Department Of Corrections. I have had a lot of firearms training. I am safe and respect others. These gun laws that are trying to be passed is tyrannical gun laws. I was given this right by my Forefathers, "The right to bear arms Shall Not Be INFRINGED"! It's the law of the land. Democrats are about going against our rights. I will never ever vote for one single Democrat until they go back to the Party of the 1980's and before. Now they are against American Patriots and values. I oppose all gun laws. I oppose all the taxes as well that the Democrats get rich from us poor people. Please reconsider taking people's rights because that will have big consequences at Election time. Sandford Fields

Dear Elected Representatives, It is very clear to me that the Right to Keep and Bear Arms in the Commonwealth in Virginia is now considered a disfavored right. The bills in question will not deter a single criminal nor prevent a single crime, but will punish honest, law-abiding citizens for exercising their rights. May we expect an 11% tax or a $500 fee for free speech, freedom of assembly, or worshipping as we please? I think not. We already have some 32,000 gun laws in this country and the problem is not more regulation but the lack of enforcement of those existing laws. The Second Amendment protects a right to keep and carry firearms, not a privilege, not a perk, not a whim. It is as integral to our citizenship as speaking freely, petitioning our government for grievances, and worshipping and living where we like. It is a brake on tyranny, and the fact that some people abuse that right does not nullify that right, and those that do ought to be punished. The people have a right to defend themselves wherever they happen to be, to deliberately interfere with that right puts the people in danger, and 100 million gun owners are not a "vocal minority." The measures proposed, in my view, would violate the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution, increase the risk to the general public (the Washington Post found that 86% of mass shootings between 2009-2016 occurred in “gun-free” zones), and signal that the ownership of firearms is discouraged. Perhaps the latter is the real goal, that despite volumes of data indicating that gun ownership tends to prevent crime, certain dogma holds otherwise, but again, dogma should not and cannot trump a Constitutional right.

My household of 4 (who are all of voting age) oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094, these bills single out specific Virginian’s by targeting them with punitive tax and is a further attack on our 2nd Amendment right.

I oppose bills HB207, HB919, and HB1094. Americans have a God given right, recognized in the Constitution of the United Sates of America and affirmed by the Supreme Court, to possess, utilize, and train with firearms and other related equipment. Taxing ammunition, firearm sales, and firearm related sales punishes every citizen of Virginia for exercising a RIGHT. Furthermore, taxing these items punishes most those most in need of protection - the average working class man or woman. People who work long hours for average or below average wages often have the most need for an affordable means to protect themselves and their families. These bills add to the financial burden of good people, in addition to insulting their heritage as Virginians. These three bills are poor policy on every level. The people of this state deserve better.

I am a Virginia resident who is deeply concerned by HB207, HB919, and HB1094. These bills do not simply raise revenue. They send a clear message that law abiding citizens who exercise a constitutional right are an acceptable target for excessive taxation. HB207’s $500 suppressor tax feels especially punitive. Many suppressors cost far less than the tax itself. For ordinary Virginians like me, this is not a fee. It is a wall. Suppressors are not tools of crime. They do not silence firearms. They reduce noise to safer levels that help prevent permanent hearing damage and reduce disturbance to neighbors. Hunters, sport shooters, and rural families benefit from this every day. The last known criminal misuse of a legally owned suppressor in Virginia occurred years ago, yet this bill treats every responsible owner as a problem to be taxed out of existence. This tax will not stop criminals. It will only ensure that working class Virginians cannot afford to comply with the law. HB919 and HB1094 are equally troubling. An 11 percent excise tax on firearms and ammunition is a direct financial burden on the exercise of a civil right. These costs will not be absorbed by manufacturers. They will be passed on to people like me. If the state would never consider taxing books or newspapers to fund government programs, it should not tax the tools required to exercise the Second Amendment. Owning a firearm is not a sin. For many Virginians, it is about self defense, family safety, hunting traditions, and personal responsibility. From a budget standpoint, these bills are short sighted. Higher prices will push sales out of Virginia and hurt local businesses. Promised revenue will shrink while trust in the fairness of our tax system erodes. When the state selectively taxes constitutional rights, it creates resentment and division instead of stability. I ask this committee to consider who truly bears the cost of these bills. It is not criminals. It is not wealthy special interests. It is regular Virginians who follow the law, care about safety, and simply want to be left alone to live their lives responsibly. Please reject HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

I oppose any bills that go against the constitution for the right to bear arms. This is the people’s only way against tyranny from the opposing party.

I oppose HB207, HB919, HB1094.

I understand that some members of the board believe these measures are necessary; however, I am struggling to see how the two proposals in question provide any tangible benefit to the Commonwealth. From my perspective, they appear primarily to restrict lawful access and impose additional financial burdens on responsible, law-abiding firearm owners exercising their constitutionally protected Second Amendment rights. In particular, I would appreciate clarification on how the proposed $500 tax on suppressors serves the public interest. It is difficult to understand how this measure accomplishes anything beyond penalizing individuals who are otherwise complying with existing laws. I respectfully ask what public safety or policy objective this tax is intended to achieve. I believe this issue deserves thoughtful discussion, and I hope policymakers will carefully consider how these proposals impact responsible citizens across the Commonwealth. -Sic Semper Tyranni—

HB207 -This bill is a solution in search of a problem. These are not used in crimes. The last known use was in 2019 in a gun free zone! These are vital in reducing noise pollution and protecting hearing in the shooting sports. Vote no on this bill. HB919 - Taxing firearms and ammunition as if it were a bad habit like cigarettes is a bad precedent to set. One would not tax a first amendment right thereby limiting its exercise to only those who can afford it. Vote no on this bill.

Vote NO on bills 207, 919, and 1094. Further, do not allow bill 954 to pass. Thank you K. P. Chess

Comment is in reference to HB919 and HB1094. These bills unfairly single out firearms and ammunition and impose an undue burden on firearms owners and users. An 11% tax per bill which aggregates to a 22% excise tax on the end consumer for new firearms (already on top of sales and other taxes) since one can reasonably assume any taxes on the manufacturer and/or retail seller will be passed on to the consumer not only places an undue financial barrier to those who wish to lawfully exercise their rights as guaranteed in both the U.S. Constitution and the Commonwealth of Virginia Constitution, the ammunition tax itself will discourage the purchase of needed live ammunition with which to train, making the firearms owner *less* safe. Gun owners who train often are far safer with their firearms than those who train infrequently (or not at all), much like drivers who safely practice their skills in actual traffic conditions are overall safer drivers than those who rarely drive. It will also have the effect of encouraging ammunition "hoarding" which I believe is contrary to the intent of the bill.

House bills 207, 919, and 1094 impose taxes on the exercise of a constitutional right. In the case of 207, it imposes a significant burden on a health saving device that reduces hearing damage for all lawful uses of arms. Individuals are safer with guns when they can practice regularly. Regular practice is safer with the use of a suppressor as it reduces permanent hearing damage. Individuals across Virginia are struggling with affordability. Do not impose a modern poll tax on a constitutional right. I and many of my liberal friends are gun owners who practice regularly and will be immediately impacted by these laws. These bills are not in the best interests of Virginians.

I oppose these bills.

NO MORE TAXES!! Stop discriminating against my poor community and people! This is a Poll Tax targeted against my people and we will NOT support Democrats in their effort to punish the poor even more.

Dear Sir/Madam, I am against (HB 207) the $500 Tax Scheme on Suppressors, which helps with hearing and being kind to others' hearing. I, also, fought against the Federal $200 Tax Scheme, which adds extra burdens on persons who wish to protect their hearing better, while exercising their 2nd Amendment and it makes it harder for people who may be on lower or fixed incomes, are disabled, elderly and the like, from gaining the benefits of the use of suppressors. Turning a Right into a Poll Tax, which my father fought, regarding voting. This is unacceptable and, also, almost a "Sin Tax." I am against (HB 919 and 1094) that would add an 11% on a Right, essentially as a "Sin Tax" against one(s) wishing to exercise their 2nd Amendment Right. This would, also, hurt those on fixed incomes (the elderly, disabled, etc.) and who make less money, especially, harder to be able to exercise their 2nd Amendment Constitutional Rights. These taxes are both unacceptable and further taxation on a Right. Thank you for your time.

I oppose these bills because of the overall hardship for costs on the consumer. My understanding was that agenda of incoming democrats were to increase safety by reducing the number of ARs there were in the public. This does not increase safety but simply makes training and purchasing unaffordable, widen the gap between the wealthy and middle class, increasing noise pollution for unaffordable suppressors for hunting. With our current political climate, hate crimes and abuses made by federal law enforcement , we should impede law abiding citizens from simply making purchases. I would ask to kill these tax bills or at minimum reduce them all to a more reasonable number than 11 percent and a 500 dollar tax stamp on top of increased prices due to tariffs.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

**Opposition to HB 207** **1. Privacy Violations** HB 207 mandates unnecessary surveillance and governmental interference in personal activities, especially in education and healthcare. This encroaches on privacy rights and contradicts Virginia’s commitment to protecting individual autonomy. **2. Discriminatory Impact** The bill disproportionately affects marginalized communities, particularly low-income families and communities of color. Rather than addressing systemic inequalities, it exacerbates them by limiting access to essential services and opportunities. **3. Ineffective Overreach** The bill’s enforcement mechanisms are inefficient and redundant. There’s no evidence that this broad intervention would meaningfully address the issues it targets. It would divert resources from more effective solutions. **Opposition to HB 919** **1. Healthcare Autonomy Undermined** HB 919 restricts individuals' rights to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By limiting access to reproductive health services, the bill infringes on the right to choose one’s medical provider and treatment, interfering with essential care. **2. Excessive Government Interference** This bill increases state control over private healthcare decisions, undermining medical professionals' expertise and judgment. It creates legal risks for healthcare providers and risks delays and confusion in delivering care. **3. Public Health Risks** By restricting access to essential healthcare services, particularly reproductive health care, HB 919 could lead to poor health outcomes. It may drive individuals to unsafe alternatives, jeopardizing public health, especially in maternal care. **Opposition to HB 1094** **1. Worker Rights Erosion** HB 1094 weakens protections for workers by expanding employer power and creating loopholes in labor laws. This bill prioritizes corporate interests over workers' rights, potentially exploiting vulnerable employees. **2. Economic Inequity** The bill disproportionately harms lower-income workers who have less leverage to negotiate fair terms. It undermines efforts to create a more equitable workforce, worsening economic inequality in Virginia. **3. Constitutional Concerns** HB 1094 raises serious constitutional issues, particularly regarding workers’ rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining. It could violate fundamental rights and reduce access to due process for workers.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094. All three bills would serve to unduly burden law-abiding Virginians from exercising their lawful right to keep and bear arms. In a time of high inflation and increased cost of living, it is profoundly unjust to levy these additional high costs onto ordinary Virginians. Further, these tax measure would disproportionately impact those of lower household income -- Virginians of all economic statuses are entitled to the rights and liberties under the Constitutions of the United States and Virginia. This legislature should not seek to economically burden these rights further.

Please oppose HB919 and HB1094. These bills promote an excessive, regressive tax that places an unreasonable burden on citizens seeking to exercise fundamental civil rights. It is a throwback to the days of segration and oppressive laws targeting specific peoples, and unworthy of our great Commonwealth.

HB919 and HB1094 This tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun should not be in question. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. And by allowing legitimate and law-abiding citizens the right to practice safely only adds to the safety of this state. For instance, no one wants to talk about the lawful and responsible use of a firearm protecting self, family, and others. Read some statistics that are suppressed by media outlets and biased reporting; “A recent study by John Lott and Carlisle Moody "Do Armed Civilians Stop Active Shooters More Effectively Than Uniformed Police"? The study took place from 2014 to 2022, armed civilians not only stopped more active shooter incidents than police, but they also saved more lives and made fewer mistakes. Law enforcement is rarely on site when violence occurs, most often they are reactive and that takes time...time you may not have.” “Crime Research.com suggests that there are potentially millions of defensive gun uses annually, ranging from 760,000 to 3.6 million, with an average around 2 million. However, some data suggests a much lower number, with only 70,000 defensive gun uses per year being reported by the government. Other research suggests that between 1.67 and 2.8 million defensive uses occur each year, with approximately 50 million total incidents over time. Here's a more detailed look: Lott's Estimates: Lott's study estimates a range of 760,000 to 3.6 million defensive gun uses per year, suggesting that there are more defensive gun uses than murders in the United States. Government Data: The government reports approximately 70,000 defensive gun uses per year, making them much rarer events. Extrapolated Data: Extrapolating data from surveys, some studies estimate that between 1.67 and 2.8 million defensive gun uses occur annually.” Virginia Citizens Defense League reports that 2.5 million Defensive Uses Each Year. Point being, legal and law-abiding gun ownership in this state protect lives. Allow these citizens the right to practice in order to limit unnecessary collateral damage by legislative suppression of our rights.

The proposed taxes in HB207, imposing a $500 fee on suppressors, and in HB919 and HB1094, levying an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition, represent a blatant infringement on the Second Amendment rights of Virginia citizens. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and individual, as in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), extending protections against state overreach. These bills effectively create financial barriers to exercising this constitutional right, akin to poll taxes that were struck down for suppressing voting rights in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966). By targeting tools essential for self-defense, hunting, and hearing protection—like suppressors that mitigate noise-induced hearing loss—these measures disproportionately burden law-abiding Virginians, punishing them for responsibly engaging in protected activities while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore such laws. Virginia’s lawmakers should reject this unconstitutional scheme that erodes federal protections and sets a dangerous precedent for taxing other enumerated rights. Beyond their unconstitutionality, these taxes are profoundly unfair and detrimental to Virginia’s citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities and stifling personal freedoms in a state already plagued by overregulation. An 11% hike on guns and ammo would hit low-income families hardest, making self-defense unaffordable for those in high-crime areas, while the $500 suppressor tax penalizes responsible gun owners seeking safer shooting practices without benefiting public safety. This revenue grab ignores Virginia’s history of fiscal mismanagement, diverting funds from real priorities like education and infrastructure to fund bloated government programs, all while infringing on the core American value of individual liberty. Lawmakers must oppose these bills to protect hardworking Virginians from discriminatory taxation that favors elite anti-gun agendas over the rights and wallets of everyday citizens, ensuring the Commonwealth doesn’t devolve into a nanny state that prioritizes control over freedom. Respectfully Submitted by a Law Abiding Concerned American Citizen and Resident of Virginia

I am writing as a Virginia resident to strongly request that the proposed bills HB1094, HB919, and HB207 are not voted on and do not pass through committee. Suppressor taxes and firearms related excise taxes are a tax on rights protected by the 2nd Amendment of the US Constitution. We are already taxed on these items through sales tax and via a Federal excise tax from the Pittman-Robertson Act. These proposed bills will not address current social issues in VA (e.g., violent crime). Additionally, VA is already becoming unaffordable to live; therefore, proposing any new tax, to include firearms related taxes, decreases affordability for everyday citizens. Next, Virginians deserve policy solutions that target criminals, not responsible firearm owners. These proposed bills make it harder for low income citizens to exercise the rights as defined by the 2nd Amendment. VA already has a surplus of revenue, why do we need more taxes? We are already taxed enough in VA. If the VA Legislature is trying to decrease crime and gun related issues, then we should go after the core of the issues, i.e., mental health treatment, decrease drug trafficking, help with homeless, etc. These proposed bills do not fund any of these issues. At least the revenue from the Pittman-Robertson Act benefits everyone that use our public lands. The revenue from these bills will go into the "General Fund" to be used at the VA Legislature's will. Regardless, a tax on a right limits VA citizens from exercising that right. Please oppose all anti gun legislation and prevent these bills from moving forward out of committee.

As a statesman of Virginia, and citizen of the Constitutional Republic of the United States of America, I strongly oppose these usurpations and violations of our inalienable rights and liberty, that are in the form of bills such as HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

I proposed bills HB207,HB919 and HB1094

I rise in opposition to HB207, HB919, and HB1094 because these bills do not promote safety—they punish Virginians for exercising a constitutional right. By imposing excessive taxes on firearms, ammunition, and suppressors, the state is effectively placing a financial barrier on the Second Amendment. Rights guaranteed by the Constitution are not privileges to be taxed into submission. These proposals disproportionately impact law-abiding citizens, including rural residents, minorities, and lower-income individuals who rely on firearms for lawful self-defense. Wealthier individuals will still be able to afford these costs, while others are priced out of a fundamental right. That is neither equitable nor just. The Constitution does not allow the government to discourage the exercise of a protected right through targeted taxation. We do not impose special taxes on free speech, religious practice, or voting—and we should not do so here. For these reasons, I strongly urge you to reject these bills.

Dear General Assembly Members; HB207, HB919, and HB1094 are unnecessary and retaliatory in nature, will have a negative impact on large and small Virginia businesses, and will impose undo hardships for many. These bills clearly target the 423,000+ law-abiding Virginia firearm owners and countless businesses reliant on the industry as their primary source of income. With the $200 NFA tax lifted, a $500 suppressor tax and 11% sales tax on firearms and ammunition are retaliatory and serve no other purpose than to target and financially burden Virginian firearm owners, especially those at an economic disadvantage, which is an egregious disservice to low-income earners. The General Assembly should instead pursue common sense and bipartisan legislation aimed at the affordability that was promised its citizens. HB207, HB919, and HB1094 are insults to good people with good intentions seeking a good life, especially when we closed 2025 with a general fund revenue surplus of $2.7B dollars. I oppose all these bills and hold you accountable to stay true to your sworn oath of office and Constitution of Virginia by opposing HB217, HB919, and HB1094. The governing body is in place to serve The People, not limit their well being. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I stand in opposition to such bills that create unduly encumbered taxation on ammunition, suppressors or accessories related to fire arms. The right to protect one should not have excessive taxation regarding the capacity to engage in such rights.

I oppose HB 207, HB 919 and HB 1094

Good morning, I am writing to oppose proposed bills HB207, HB919, and HB1094. I am against these bills on the basis of their effect on U.S. and Virginia citizens' right to self defense and bearing arms; the bills' insubordination with respect to the U.S. Constitution and Bill Of Rights; and the bills' net effects of disenfranchising the poor and middle class by making the costs of owning, maintaining, and properly training on firearms prohibitive. These bills set a dangerous precedent of illegally restricting rights through legislative smoke shields in order to advance the disarmament of the U.S. citizen and the Virginia citizen. I urge the Virginia legislature to oppose these measures and vote 'no' on HB207, HB919, HB1094, and any subsequent measures like them. Thank you. Very Respectfully, Lara Abila

I oppose HB207;HB919,HB1094

Good morning, I wanted to provide a few comments for three of the bills before the council today. To begin with, HB207. As a lifelong hunter and shooter, the recent improvements in accessibility for the hearing protection devices known as suppressors has been a real boon. Previously--particularly during hunting season, when I have to leave my ears uncovered to properly listen to my surroundings--I would sustain real, measurable hearing damage with every shot. Now that I have been able to purchase a suppressor, this is no longer the case. The recent reduction of the Federal tax stamp down to $0 has now made this accessible to just about anyone, as it has removed a major roadblock to acquiring these medically recommended (the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) has endorsed their use) devices. Reinstalling and more than doubling this tax at the state level would not just be an imposition, it is one that would primarily fall upon those less fortunate and thus less able to bear this needless tax. Having access to basic technology to preserve one's health and hearing should not depend upon one's financial ability to pay a completely arbitrary tax, with no sound purpose. Suppressors, after all, do not fully silence weapons, they barely reduce the decibels of most common firearms to a hearing safe level, and are still quite loud--often as loud as a jackhammer. This makes them distinctly unsuited in aiding crimes and shootings in the ways commonly imagined by those unfamiliar with them. HB919 and 1094 are related, so I will comment on them together. These pieces of legislation are a mistake for the same reason as the above. There is already an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition (and archery equipment) at the Federal level, which is used to more squarely target the upkeep of conservation, wildlife management and wild areas upon those who use said resources. Tacking on another tax would begin to make regular training and shooting unreachable for a whole class of hunters and shooters, and that class would, once again, be those less fortunate. This could potentially have even more unintended downstream effects, as less well-practiced and trained gun owners will likely be less safe with their firearms. Taking the money raised through this tax and shunting it into some sort of Gun Violence Prevention office, which will likely be used to do nothing more than recommend the further criminalization on law-abiding gun owners, is insult to injury. The bills have no chance at making Virginia more safe, have the potential to decrease the safety of Virginia shooters by making training more expensive, and will further erode gun owners' trust in government by funding an office to target them specifically. I urge an emphatic no vote on all three bills. Thank you for your time, David

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. The proposed taxes in HB207, imposing a $500 fee on suppressors, and in HB919 and HB1094, levying an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition, represent a blatant infringement on the Second Amendment rights of Virginia citizens. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and individual, as in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), extending protections against state overreach. These bills effectively create financial barriers to exercising this constitutional right, akin to poll taxes that were struck down for suppressing voting rights in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966). By targeting tools essential for self-defense, hunting, and hearing protection—like suppressors that mitigate noise-induced hearing loss—these measures disproportionately burden law-abiding Virginians, punishing them for responsibly engaging in protected activities while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore such laws. Virginia’s lawmakers should reject this unconstitutional scheme that erodes federal protections and sets a dangerous precedent for taxing other enumerated rights. Beyond their unconstitutionality, these taxes are profoundly unfair and detrimental to Virginia’s citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities and stifling personal freedoms in a state already plagued by overregulation. An 11% hike on guns and ammo would hit low-income families hardest, making self-defense unaffordable for those in high-crime areas, while the $500 suppressor tax penalizes responsible gun owners seeking safer shooting practices without benefiting public safety. This revenue grab ignores Virginia’s history of fiscal mismanagement, diverting funds from real priorities like education and infrastructure to fund bloated government programs, all while infringing on the core American value of individual liberty. Lawmakers must oppose these bills to protect hardworking Virginians from discriminatory taxation that favors elite anti-gun agendas over the rights and wallets of everyday citizens, ensuring the Commonwealth doesn’t devolve into a nanny state that prioritizes control over freedom.

I would like to provide some context as to who I am because It provides important context to my opinions and statements below. I have been a Virginia resident for 28 years in Fairfax and Arlington counties, and a public servant for 23 years. I am an independent voter and believe that no party adequately represents the full spectrum of my beliefs. I believe that it is the diversity of thought and experience in the different communities in Virginia what keeps VA purple AND What keeps it strong. We are blessed to have people we disagree with as our neighbors because it keeps our minds open and agile, and reenforces empathy for our fellow citizens. Our country and our neighbors are suffering deeply right now because the political pendulum is swinging so hard that it cannot be tolerated by our neighbors, and then when it swings in the other direction it cannot be tolerated by us. Pushing this pendulum to swing harder and faster and farther is what will tear our society apart. I voted for Governor Spanberger and Representative Walkinshaw in the last election because I wanted to defend the diversity that strengthens us as a country and also protect my family members in marginalized minority groups. I hoped I wasn’t voting for another extremist, or another person who was take the pendulum and swing it as hard as they could in the other direction. I definitely didn’t vote for nor do I support the more extreme elements of the proposed firearms legislation. HB207 - Keys-Gamarra Tax of $500 on suppressors is inherently discriminatory to low income individuals. The right to own firearms and firearms related equipment should not be one exclusively available to high income individuals HB919 – Lopez HB1094 - Laufer These bills are reasonable and where the revenue would go is directly applicable to what is being taxed. I support this legislation. HB217 - Helmer, Clark and Sullivan This proposed legislation is uninformed and written inconsistently. Capacity of up to 20 rounds is extremely common. Those extra rounds do not markedly decrease the lethality of a pistol or a rifle. It does not change a firearm from semiautomatic to a automatic. If someone had malicious intent to use a firearm, it takes less than one second to swap a magazine. This legislation significantly impacts the large sport shooting community in Virginia. In order to be competitive in national competitions you need to train with higher capacity magazines or you will not be nearly as competitive. It also makes it impossible to obtain new firearms to stay competitive as the sport advances. Many of the characteristics that have been steamed “assault-style” are extremely common in hunting scenarios, keep the hunter safe in dangerous conditions, and protect their hearing and the peacefulness of the area in which they’re hunting. I firmly believe in the fallibility of humans and their propensity towards greed and power. The Second Amendment was given to us by our forefathers to ensure the consent of the governed. This amendment goes too far to neuter the balance of power between governing forces and the people that are governed. This legislation will also further polarize the conservative constituents of Virginia. Do not legislate against something they deeply value unless you wish for them to legislate against something that you deeply value. I do not support this legislation.

I agree with the VCDL on these bills

My comments are directed at both HB919 and HB1094. At what point will the Democrat Party launch a full-frontal assault on all of our 10 bills of rights? An 111% tax on ammo and firearms is not needed. Former Governor Glenn Youngkin left the Democrats a $25 billion budget excess, so why the tax increase? This is nothing more than an attack on our civil rights. First eliminate the peasants’ ability to defend and protect themselves and their families. After that, it will all fall. No more free exercise of religion; no more freedom of speech; no more protection from search and seizure. This bill should be defeated by every freedom loving legislator.

I/We The People, strongly oppose the proposed taxes in HB207, imposing a $500 fee on suppressors, and in HB919 and HB1094, levying an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition, represent a blatant infringement on the Second Amendment rights of Virginia citizens. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and individual, as in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), extending protections against state overreach. These bills effectively create financial barriers to exercising this constitutional right, akin to poll taxes that were struck down for suppressing voting rights in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966). By targeting tools essential for self-defense, hunting, and hearing protection—like suppressors that mitigate noise-induced hearing loss—these measures disproportionately burden law-abiding Virginians, punishing them for responsibly engaging in protected activities while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore such laws. Virginia’s lawmakers should reject this unconstitutional scheme that erodes federal protections and sets a dangerous precedent for taxing other enumerated rights. Beyond their unconstitutionality, these taxes are profoundly unfair and detrimental to Virginia’s citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities and stifling personal freedoms in a state already plagued by overregulation. An 11% hike on guns and ammo would hit low-income families hardest, making self-defense unaffordable for those in high-crime areas, while the $500 suppressor tax penalizes responsible gun owners seeking safer shooting practices without benefiting public safety. This revenue grab ignores Virginia’s history of fiscal mismanagement, diverting funds from real priorities like education and infrastructure to fund bloated government programs, all while infringing on the core American value of individual liberty. Lawmakers must oppose these bills to protect hardworking Virginians from discriminatory taxation that favors elite anti-gun agendas over the rights and wallets of everyday citizens, ensuring the Commonwealth doesn’t devolve into a nanny state that prioritizes control over freedom. Our constitution prohibits tyrannical government. We The People oppose an attempt by a tyrannical state government to infringe our rights that the Constitution gives us. We The People Stand against any form of overreach that is unconstitutional. Thank you and God Bless this State and the USA.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094 . This isn’t making things more affordable for Virginia families.

These bills are undermining the citizens ability to protect themselves as is a right via the constitution. It incriminates more responsible gun owners than those who are not. To make more criminals in effort to reduce the danger in our state is counter productive. Please do not pass this bill. Vote NO on these

I oppose this legislation

I oppose these bills. These bills will deprive me of my rightful property and my favorite hobbies. This is tyrannical governance at its best

As a retired Active Duty, Sergeant First Class that swore an oath to support and defend the U.S. Constitution. I am watching firearms legislations being filed that appalls me to the core. Especially when these legislations are proposed and voted on by individuals that know nothing about firearms, Democrat veterans and Democrats Legislators, that took an oath to the Constitution that also want to disarm law abiding citizens and tell them what they can or cannot own. This is an assault on the Constitutional rights of all law-abiding, legal gun owners, veterans, servicemembers and military aged civilians between the ages of 18 and 20. For 250 years, our Constitutional Republic, Our Nation has upheld our Constitution and those rights that are enshrined in it are protected from infringement. These legislations do not promote public safety, not do they have anything to do with public safety. They are only suppressing the rights of individuals tgat are not committing crimes and that will not commit crimes. These legislations do NOT prevent or deter crime. These legislations suppress the the rights of Veterans, Law Abiding Citizens, Active Duty Servivemen and Women, National Guardsmen, and First Responders. I am sure you are going to exempt law enforcement and retired law enforcement from these legislations. Yet you will suppress the rights of people that never committed a crime.

I deeply oppose these bills

Why a tax on items used for sport/recreation? Why should law abiding citizens who choose to pursue a particular sport or hobby be burdened with the highest tax in the state? This seems like a 'hatred' tax towards gun owners and I urge you to remove this bill.

I strongly oppose these tax bills. These and other tax increases will not help make Virginia any more affordable for families already struggling with higher than ever cost of living. I urge you to please reject these tax increases.

To the Honorable Members of the House of Delegates, I am writing to express my firm opposition to HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094. Collectively, these bills seek to impose an unprecedented financial burden on law-abiding Virginians exercising their Second Amendment rights. The Impact of HB 207 (The Suppressor Tax). HB 207 proposes a $500 excise tax on firearm suppressors. This is a tax on safety equipment, not a luxury. • Hearing Protection: Suppressors do not "silence" firearms; they simply reduce the report to hearing-safe levels. They take a sound-level comparable to a jet plane taking off and lower it to that of a jackhammer. This is vital for the health of hunters and the peace of mind of neighbors near target ranges. • Negligible Criminal Use: The last instance of a legally owned suppressor used in a crime in Virginia was in 2019. Law-abiding owners should not be punitively taxed for a single event nearly seven years ago. • Economic Exclusion: With many suppressors priced at $300, a $500 tax represents a 160% tax rate. This effectively prices lower-income Virginians out of the market, making hearing protection a privilege only for the wealthy. The Impact of HB 919 and HB 1094 (Firearms and Ammunition Excise Tax). These bills seek an 11% excise tax on the gross sales of firearms and ammunition. This functions as a "sin tax" on a fundamental civil right. • A Dangerous Precedent: We would never consider an excise tax on book publishers or news organizations, as it would clearly unconstitutionally increase the cost of exercising First Amendment rights. The Second Amendment deserves that same level of protection. • Public Safety: Owning a firearm is not a "sin." Firearms are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Furthermore, by increasing the cost of ammunition, the state actively discourages the regular training and proficiency that lead to responsible ownership. These measures do not address the root causes of crime; they only penalize the law-abiding. I urge you to vote "No" on HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094. Please protect the rights of your constituents to safely and affordably defend themselves.

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094.

I oppose HB207, HB919, HB1094.

Vote no on these unconstitutional taxes.

Please vote NO on HB 207. This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. These are very important safety devices that should not be burdened with an unnecessary tax. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Most suppressors are priced between $300 to $1000, so this would be a 50% to 160% tax which is a tremendous burden on Virginia citizens! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect their hearing? Please vote NO on HB 919.This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This tax is using the 'sin tax' model, but it is directly and adversely affecting a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used for many lawful purposes including to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I oppose these bills and any bill that punishes law-abiding American citizens from exercising their constitutional rights. Instead, you should increase penalties for criminals and revise bail laws.

Virginia was in good shape, we had a surplus of money that Gov Youngkin gave back to the taxpayers. And NOW you want to raise taxes on everything. There are alot of us on a fixed income and can't afford the taxes. These taxes are no necessary unless it is putting money into your pockets. This needs to stop or we will vote you out, after we do a recall. You are not doing what is best for the taxpayers in Virginia. You are doing this for you and how much money it will put in your pockets. STOP THE RAISING OF ANY TAXES ON VIRGINIANS.

I oppose HB 207, HB919, and HB1094! They are unconstitutional.

I oppose HB207: HB919, and HB1094.

All three of these bills are tantamount to a sin tax against those who are legally exercising their second amendment rights. Gun owners are not criminals and should not be punished in this way. Are free speech and first amendment rights going to be taxed as well by charging extra for books or ink or posters? These three bills are a gross misuse of power and are bad for the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The proposed taxes in HB207, imposing a $500 fee on suppressors, and in HB919 and HB1094, levying an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition, represent a blatant infringement on the Second Amendment rights of Virginia citizens. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and individual, as in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), extending protections against state overreach. These bills effectively create financial barriers to exercising this constitutional right, akin to poll taxes that were struck down for suppressing voting rights in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966). By targeting tools essential for self-defense, hunting, and hearing protection—like suppressors that mitigate noise-induced hearing loss—these measures disproportionately burden law-abiding Virginians, punishing them for responsibly engaging in protected activities while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore such laws. Virginia’s lawmakers should reject this unconstitutional scheme that erodes federal protections and sets a dangerous precedent for taxing other enumerated rights. Beyond their unconstitutionality, these taxes are profoundly unfair and detrimental to Virginia’s citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities and stifling personal freedoms in a state already plagued by overregulation. An 11% hike on guns and ammo would hit low-income families hardest, making self-defense unaffordable for those in high-crime areas, while the $500 suppressor tax penalizes responsible gun owners seeking safer shooting practices without benefiting public safety. This revenue grab ignores Virginia’s history of fiscal mismanagement, diverting funds from real priorities like education and infrastructure to fund bloated government programs, all while infringing on the core American value of individual liberty. Lawmakers must oppose these bills to protect hardworking Virginians from discriminatory taxation that favors elite anti-gun agendas over the rights and wallets of everyday citizens, ensuring the Commonwealth doesn’t devolve into a nanny state that prioritizes control over freedom.

These proposed bills are a blatant attack on our 2nd amendment rights and personal liberties. They will do nothing to stop crime but as usual, restrict the law abiding responsible gun owners. Why don't you stop making it easier for criminals to walk our streets and at the same time try to restrict our ability to defend our families and ourselves??? You are allowed to be protected by armed security but what you're saying in these proposals is that we don't have the same right.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094 as they infringe our Second Amendment rights.

The proposed taxes in HB207, imposing a $500 fee on suppressors, and in HB919 and HB1094, levying an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition, represent a blatant infringement on the Second Amendment rights of Virginia citizens. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and individual, as in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), extending protections against state overreach. These bills effectively create financial barriers to exercising this constitutional right, akin to poll taxes that were struck down for suppressing voting rights in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966). By targeting tools essential for self-defense, hunting, and hearing protection—like suppressors that mitigate noise-induced hearing loss—these measures disproportionately burden law-abiding Virginians, punishing them for responsibly engaging in protected activities while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore such laws. Virginia’s lawmakers should reject this unconstitutional scheme that erodes federal protections and sets a dangerous precedent for taxing other enumerated rights. Beyond their unconstitutionality, these taxes are profoundly unfair and detrimental to Virginia’s citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities and stifling personal freedoms in a state already plagued by overregulation. An 11% hike on guns and ammo would hit low-income families hardest, making self-defense unaffordable for those in high-crime areas, while the $500 suppressor tax penalizes responsible gun owners seeking safer shooting practices without benefiting public safety. This revenue grab ignores Virginia’s history of fiscal mismanagement, diverting funds from real priorities like education and infrastructure to fund bloated government programs, all while infringing on the core American value of individual liberty. Lawmakers must oppose these bills to protect hardworking Virginians from discriminatory taxation that favors elite anti-gun agendas over the rights and wallets of everyday citizens, ensuring the Commonwealth doesn’t devolve into a nanny state that prioritizes control over freedom.

I’m opposed to these bills. I think it’s tyrannical to discriminate against law abiding gun owners or those who wish to be. We have a constitutional right to keep and bear arms. These bills infringe upon the rights that the constitution says SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED! If you want to stop gun violence, put stronger penalties on those who commit acts of violence with guns. Be honest about the motivation for proposing these bills because they are only punitive to law abiding citizens, and will do NOTHING to prevent gun violence.

I strongly oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

I oppose the above bills, HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

Gun control advocates for years spouted that their stance is for "gun safety" not abolition. All three of the bills, 207, 954, and 1094 are blatant attempts at eventual abolition and restricting the availability of safety devices. A $500 tax on suppressors flies in the face of the new federal ruling that has reduced the tax to $0. Firearm suppressors are considered PPE by the military, law enforcement as well as the general public. Suppressors are virtually NEVER used in crime, approximately 0.003% of the 1.3 million legally owned suppressors in the our county used in crime. Suppressors protect the hearing of the user and bystanders when using firearms. So let me get this straight, Everytown for "gun safety" doesn't actually want guns to be safer?? Perhaps it comes from a fundamental misunderstanding of how firearms work, how suppressors work and maybe a fundamental misunderstanding for how guns are even used and to what degree they are actually used legally compared to when they are used illegally? You can quote disingenuous statistics until we are all blue in the face; so long as the listener never investigates those contrived statistics like "the leading cause of child deaths" except they don't tell you that stat includes up to 21 year olds and suicides. Excise taxes? To folks in underprivileged neighborhoods, that crime is often a fact of every day life, and yet the left would seek to make it more expensive for them to acquire the most effective equalizing tool to defend themselves? In the quiet back room, I'm sure you would call it "a sacrifice for the greater good" no doubt. User friendly firearms, enable the most weak of our society to defend themselves against the most strong. This is a liberating reality that has not been actualized for all of human society until the invention of firearms. The weapons that you seek to outlaw, are the very ones that provide the weakest among us the best possible chance of survival against an assailant that your weak judiciary system let out on the street after their 15th arrest. But of course, the left chooses to attack the ease of access to inanimate objects that perform no actions on their own, rather than seeking to tackle the root of the problem of crime and violence - culture. Firearms exist, knives exist, 3000lb automobiles exist, scalpels exist.. scalpels and forceps have killed more human beings than any other devices on the face of the earth..but thats a different topic I suppose. Firearms existence won't cease, you can't put the cat back in the bag. The lie of "we don't want to take your guns" is laid bare when its realized that the only reason you aren't attempting full abolition, is because your insidious agenda is to slowly degrade rights like a frog in boiling water. Every totalitarian regime begins first with disarming its people. Hundreds of millions of people just in the 20th century alone (and I do not exaggerate) have been murdered by their own governments under regimes claiming to uphold "the greater good" for "utopia". You cannot solve a cultural problem by attacking a mechanism. Britain's stabbing epidemic is indicative of this. Human sinful intent is the driving force, and sinful intent finds a way no matter what tools are available. Tools to defend life should be the best and most efficient possible. The ownership of weapons is not something that can be bestowed like a magic talisman to the "right people only", only the wrong people will have them if you try.

These taxes are regressive and hurt lower income Virginians. A recent study by the New York times of all places advocates that we should treat suppressors as personal protective equipment, as they are throughout most of Europe. Shooting on suppressed firearms at an indoor range can have serious health effects such as micro-concussions. The 11% tax on firearms and ammunition is a direct tax on exercising a right, will undoubtedly face constitutional scrutiny, and punishes law-abiding Virginians for something they didn't do

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094

I am writing today to express my opposition to an excise tax on firearms and ammunition sales in VA. This will ultimately hurt the economy driving millions of dollars of sales out of the state and add to the financial struggle of millions of Virginians who exercise their 2nd amendment rights. WE did not vote or agree to be taxed more AND it is not constitutional to tax a right.

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094 and all unconstitutional acts. The US Constitution and the Virginia Constitution state clearly it is the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. The government has no power to alter that. No proposed bill will lessen gun violence, nor is it common sense reform. Less than 2.5% of gun owners commit any crime, let alone gun violence. This is an attack on reasonable, reaponsible, and lawful firearm owners. Meanwhile, citizens such as myself watch as criminals continuously are provided lax judgement and commit repeated offenses with minimal recourse. Uphold the laws aa they are written; writing new laws only threatens the free and lawful people you are supposed to represent.

I oppose HB207, HB919, HB1094.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

Dear General Assembly Members; HB207, HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are unnecessary and retaliatory in nature, will have a negative impact on large and small Virginia businesses, and will impose undo hardships for many. These bills clearly target the 423,000+ law-abiding Virginia firearm owners and countless businesses reliant on the industry as their primary source of income. With the $200 NFA tax lifted, a $500 suppressor tax and 11% sales tax on firearms and ammunition are retaliatory and serve no other purpose than to target and financially burden Virginian firearm owners, especially those at an economic disadvantage, which is an egregious disservice to low-income earners. The General Assembly should instead pursue common sense and bipartisan legislation aimed at the affordability that was promised its citizens. HB207, HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are insults to good people with good intentions seeking a good life, especially when we closed 2025 with a general fund revenue surplus of $2.7B dollars. I oppose all these bills and hold you accountable to stay true to your sworn oath of office and Constitution of Virginia by opposing HB207, HB217, HB919, and HB1094. The governing body is in place to serve The People, not limit their well being. Thank you for your time and consideration.

To whom it may concern, I am AGAINST bill HB919 and HB1094 because they place an UNFAIR tax on law abiding gunowners. The $500 suppressor tax is especially heinous, seeing that there have been few, if ANY crimes committed using a Federally Registered suppressor (Or other firearms covered under the NFA act) since the law was enacted in 1934. There is absolutely NO reason to impose a $500 tax on suppressors except petty, political, partisan SPITE!

I oppose HB207 HB919 HB1094

I am 77 years old, and hard of hearing from both my past work environment and shooting sports. Even with ear protection, I have continued to lose my hearing. A suppressor in combination with a set of ear muffs would make my limited hearing sustainable for the few years I have left. It would also decrease the noise production less disturbing to the fellow firearm enthusiasts. It is but a muffler, and does not nullify firearm sounds. A tax added to the purchase of firearms and ammunition would make my continued enjoyment of the shooting sport difficult since I am on a just sustainable retirement income. It is one of the few enjoyments I have left. Don't take this beloved activity away from this older gentleman. Obey the constitution as written, and quail the tyrant you are producing in the Commonwealth of Virginia. That is all.

Lifetime resident of the Commonwealth and I OPPOSE HB207, HB919 and HB1094

HB207: Given the timing of this bills introduction occurring after the removal of the $200 dollar federal tax stamp on suppressors, Its no doubt this is a purely punitive tax meant to punish rather than to retain revenue for the state. Given the well established precedent by the supreme court ruling that rights cannot be taxed (ink for printing press per Minneapolis Star v. Minnesota) as it pertains to the first amendment, so too is the second amendment free from receiving separate and purely punitive taxes. Additionally, this taxation will not withstand the NYSRPA v Bruen ruling where a specific outlying tax on firearm and firearm accessories can be dated back to the founding. Millions of dollars of taxpayer dollars will be spent fighting this bill in court, far more than would ever be gained by the commonwealth in unconstitutional revenue. HB919 & HB1094: Similar to the above, Minneapolis Star v. Minnesota has already ruled that a tax on on ink and paper, being separate from a general sales tax on all goods, is an unconstitutional tax against free speech, so too is a specific 11% tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers which as applied will be passed on to the consumers. Additionally, this unconstitutional tax will gravely impact the training budgets of the over 20,000 law enforcement personnel in Virginia as well as the 27 military bases housing approx 130,000 active duty military personnel who rely on firearms and ammunition to train and protect our commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. The taxpayers in the commonwealth will pay millions of dollars to fight this tax through local and circuit courts over the coming years only to see it struck down by SCOTUS all while seeing ammo purchases simply go outside the state to acquire ammo outside of taxable revenue streams.

Among the litany of other tax bills on their way to the Governor, HB207 not only puts a 500$ tax on NFA items which are protected under the 2nd Amendment which is not only in the Bill of Rights and Virginia's Constitution, but HB1094 and HB919 puts an 11% tax on any firearm related purchase, these bills are nothing but a sin tax, and our right that is enshrined in our constitution should not be taxed away to the point where only the rich can exercise that right.

I am a lifelong citizen of Virginia and this has afforded me the opportunity to participate in many outdoor, hunting and sport shooting activities. I like many others hunt to provide food for my family and those I love. I target shoot to practice safety and to teach the generations that follow me how to properly use, handle and respect firearms. I also rely on firearms as a means to protect my home and family. I do not have the luxury of city living where help is mere moments away. Response times for my department can be delayed depending on what is going on in our county and the limited resources of our very dedicated Sheriff’s Department. Now as a political tool I am being told to exercise this right I will have to pay an unjust tax because I lawfully carry out these activities like millions of other citizens in this Commonwealth. This is nothing more than a punishment for those of use that rely on these firearms for our way of life and families. HB919 and HB1094 will only punish those that follow the law and will not prevent criminals from performing evil acts. As for HB207, contrary to stereotypes suppressors are an extremely useful hearing protection device. I suffer from tinnitus from my time in the military and work related hearing damage. I am very familiar with the dangers of the noise created with firearms and learned far too late the damage that can come from exposure. As a sportsmen and avid shooter I have used suppressors and hearing protection to protect myself, my kids, and my friends. The recent changes to the NFA Tax Stamp has made suppressors more affordable to protect more people. This bill is a step backwards for the safety of the citizens in Virginia. And why we ask, because of movie myths that portray these devices as something that can make firearms more deadly. They are for sound reduction not silencing of firearms. Decibel reduction is much different than the completely silent examples often portrayed. These items still have to be purchased through an extensive background check through the NFA which prevents these items from falling into the hands of criminals. Again this is an unjust tax being imposed out of fear of an object due to fiction and not fact and offers yet another hurdle without benefit for law abiding citizens of Virginia. I implore you as a neighbor of this Virginian and many more to vote down these measures that will punish law abiding citizens.

I wanted to share my opposition to these bills in light of the tremendous lack of data showing that any of these will dissuade criminal activity, lessen offenses, or better our communities in any articulable way. The data just doesn't support the need for increased taxation for law-abiding gun owners. It has been said throughout the years, and I have a hard time finding a counterargument: Criminals don't follow the law, so why should more laws, more taxation, or more firearm regulation persist? Instead, I suggest proposing efforts along the lines of mental health reform, addiction intervention, and stiffening penalties for offenses. These, unlike more gun control, are actually proven to reduce criminal activity while elevating the greatest asset in any culture, love. Reduce taxes, all of them. Find waste, fraud, and expose it. Tighten budgets, find savings. This is something all constituents will rally together to support. Do this, and you'll have my support, regardless of party affiliation.

Gentlemen, Concerning HB207, It concerns me that the state would charge such an outrageous tax on an item that protects the safety of the individual and any others standing near a Firearm being discharged, that has the capacity of causing hearing loss, especially at a range or shooting event. The suppressor only reduces the sound to a safe decibel level not deaden the sound completely. If a criminal wishes to use one in the commission of a crime he or she would more likely obtain one by theft or other illegal means. Therefore the average citizens will be penalized for using their Constitutional Right, especially those with lower incomes. In reference to Bills HB919 and HB1094, they too are designed to restrict the average American from having free access to ammunition for recreational shooting sports, for practice with a weapon used for protection (which by the way gives the user more active time with their weapon, which enables safer use of said weapon), and for hunting. These laws spit on every law abiding citizen and every veteran that has fought and died for the freedoms which you yourselves possess. Thank you Gentlemen, Troy Barrett

I profoundly disagree with passing any of these bills as detrimental to the US Cinstitution and the Virginia Constitution.

I am an avid hunter. On a yearly basis- I average 50-80 days of hunting per year during numerous season. I average $700-1000 in ammunition per year during these hunting seasons. This tax is going to tremendously impact my season by not allowing me to hunt as many days or purchase necessary equipment. This is basically robbing Peter to pay Paul. I spend these tax dollars in many different ways during these seasons via sales taxes, gas taxes, licenses and fees, vehicle and boat registrations as well as may others. This is an un necessary tax burden when we already have a multi-billion dollar surplus.

Chair, members of the Subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to speak. My name is Grayson Davis, and I am a resident of King William County, Virginia. I’m writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094. Each of these bills represents unnecessary government overreach that would impose new restrictions on responsible citizens while doing little to solve the issues they claim to address. As written, they risk penalizing law-abiding Virginians, burdening local enforcement, and undermining individual rights and community freedoms that our state has long respected. I urge this Subcommittee to consider the real impact these measures will have on ordinary citizens who already comply with existing laws. Instead of layering new regulations or controls, our focus should remain on practical, evidence-based solutions — ones that respect personal responsibility, property rights, and the freedoms guaranteed under both the Virginia and U.S. Constitutions. Please reject HB207, HB919, and HB1094, and stand with the Virginians who value liberty, accountability, and common-sense governance. Thank you for your time and your service to our Commonwealth.

I’m writing to strongly oppose House Bills 207, 919, and 1094. These bills place an unfair financial burden on Virginians who want to exercise their constitutional right to keep and bear arms. The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and Article I, Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution clearly protect these rights and limit government interference. Taxing items like hearing protection (which is a safety measure), commonly used firearms, and ammunition is a clear attempt to discourage law-abiding citizens from exercising their rights. These added costs will mainly impact lower- and middle-income Virginians, making it harder for them to afford lawful self-defense, while wealthier residents will be less affected. This raises serious concerns about the intent and fairness of these proposals. These taxes also contradict recent promises to make Virginia more affordable. Under Governor Youngkin’s vetoes, Virginia remained more affordable and our constitutional rights were protected. These bills appear to be a deliberate attempt to impose new financial pressure on citizens who simply want to exercise fundamental freedoms. Unconstitutional burdens placed on basic liberties through excessive taxes—especially those that disproportionately affect working and middle-class Virginians—are an insult to freedom and a failure to represent the people fairly. I urge you to do the right thing: protect our constitutional rights, keep Virginia affordable, and vote “no” on these bills. With the current budget surplus, there is no need to balance the budget by targeting law-abiding Virginians exercising their rights.

HB207 The purpose of this bill is to make suppressors prohibitively expensive, just like the NFA act of 1934. This bill will once again price people out of being able to purchase these devices. This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax. HB919 & HB1094 These bills create an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. This is a "sin tax" that affects a basic civil right and yet another set of bills pricing people out of gun ownership.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

These gun laws only target lawful gun owners. Specifically, suppressors are hearing protection devices and should be made more accessible to all lawful gun owners. Suppressors do not eliminate noise like Hollywood mistakenly portrays. However, they do reduce the concussive blast experienced by the shooter and those nearby, so I encourage all lawful gun owners to use suppressors to protect their hearing and the hearing of those nearby. The federal government recently reduced the NFA tax on suppressors to zero dollars. This is a good thing. VA's proposed $500 supper tax would make them less accessible.

Bill Ballerd Good heads up. My comments: Dear General Assembly Members; HB207, HB919, and HB1094 are unnecessary and retaliatory in nature, will have a negative impact on large and small Virginia businesses, and will impose undo hardships for many. These bills clearly target the 423,000+ law-abiding Virginia firearm owners and countless businesses reliant on the industry as their primary source of income. With the $200 NFA tax lifted, a $500 suppressor tax and 11% sales tax on firearms and ammunition are retaliatory and serve no other purpose than to target and financially burden Virginian firearm owners, especially those at an economic disadvantage, which is an egregious disservice to low-income earners. The General Assembly should instead pursue common sense and bipartisan legislation aimed at the affordability that was promised its citizens. HB207, HB919, and HB1094 are insults to good people with good intentions seeking a good life, especially when we closed 2025 with a general fund revenue surplus of $2.7B dollars. I oppose all these bills and hold you accountable to stay true to your sworn oath of office and Constitution of Virginia by opposing HB207, HB919, and HB1094. The governing body is in place to serve The People, not limit their well being. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Concerning HB919 and HB1094: Since both bills impose excise tax collections which will be provided to the new "Virginia Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund" (established pursuant to 9.1-116.6) and since that new fund does not specifically provide to localities for the specific purpose of improving public school physical security measures (to prevent gun violence), I urge opposing both HB919 and HB1094. Concerning HB207: Since this egregious level excise tax collection will be provided to the general fund, which is not specifically marked for improving public school physical security measures (to prevent gun violence), and since many suppressors retail at 300 dollars or less (resulting in a 160% tax), I urge opposing HB207.

Bills HB207, HB919 and HB1094 are fundamentally unconstitutional AND discriminatory. They punish people for exercising the constitutional right to purchase arms. Furthermore, they discriminate against minorities and less affluent people, making it disproportionately difficult for them to exercise their rights by targeting them with these invented taxes. These bills have nothing to do with safety, as criminals will have no problem paying these taxes. They are simple income-based discrimination.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094 .

I oppose All of the above Gun Bills. I am not a criminal nor have I ever been one. Our Government can Not protect me my property, or my Family. I have a God given right to bear and own guns Also 2A rights. You work for ME ! You are supposed to represent ME ! Stop with All the Over reach . Let me tell you what you should be doing , You should be passing bills to benefit the American people like Health care, economy, Get rid of these taxes that benefit your needs !! Finish deporting these illegal immigrants you brought into this country !! Again No on Gun bills .

The 2nd amendment does not in any way shape or form all these changes constitutional. Every bill you are pushing through house is definition of infringement. Also the first amendment grants all US citizens the freedom of speech . As a Christian I am subject to hate speech from others and have no avenue of protection other than my 2 nd amendment rights !

I rise in opposition to HB207, HB919, and HB1094 because these bills do not promote safety—they punish Virginians for exercising a constitutional right. By imposing excessive taxes on firearms, ammunition, and suppressors, the state is effectively placing a financial barrier on the Second Amendment. Rights guaranteed by the Constitution are not privileges to be taxed into submission. These proposals disproportionately impact law-abiding citizens, including rural residents, minorities, and lower-income individuals who rely on firearms for lawful self-defense. Wealthier individuals will still be able to afford these costs, while others are priced out of a fundamental right. That is neither equitable nor just. The Constitution does not allow the government to discourage the exercise of a protected right through targeted taxation. We do not impose special taxes on free speech, religious practice, or voting—and we should not do so here. For these reasons, I strongly urge you to reject these bills.

HB207 - I strongly oppose the proposed suppressor tax because it directly conflicts with the values of equity, accessibility, disability accommodation, and public health that this body consistently says it supports. I have documented hearing loss. Audiologists have advised me not to shoot unsuppressed whenever it can be avoided, because further exposure causes irreversible damage. Suppressors are not optional or recreational for me—they are a medically recommended harm-reduction tool. I rely on them while hunting to provide food for my family and while training at the range to prevent further injury. Shooting unsuppressed also causes permanent hearing damage to animals, including working dogs and pets. By taxing a safety device, this bill actively harms Virginians with hearing impairments and creates a financial barrier to compliance with medical guidance. If this were any other disability-related protective equipment, imposing a special tax would rightly be viewed as discriminatory. The policy does not reduce risk—it shifts the burden onto people least able to absorb it. This bill will not meaningfully affect wealthy individuals. It will, however, restrict access for lower- and middle-income Virginians, rural residents, and people with disabilities. That outcome is not equity. It is the opposite. If equity and harm reduction are truly guiding principles, then lawmakers should not be pricing disabled Virginians out of protective equipment that prevents permanent injury. I urge the committee to reconsider and reject this bill. HB919 & HB1094- I oppose HB 919 because it imposes a targeted excise tax on the exercise of a constitutional right and does so in a way that is inequitable, classist, and harmful to working professionals. If the Commonwealth would not impose a special excise tax on book publishers or printing presses because their products enable First Amendment activity, it should not impose one on firearms and ammunition manufacturers whose products enable the exercise of Second Amendment rights. Constitutional rights should not be conditioned on the ability to pay a premium tax. I work in the security field, where firearm proficiency is not optional—it is a legal and professional requirement. We are required to train regularly and complete annual, state-mandated requalification. Ammunition costs are a direct and unavoidable expense of compliance. Any excise tax placed on manufacturers will be passed directly to consumers, increasing the cost of required training and lawful work. This bill does not meaningfully affect wealthy individuals or large institutions. It disproportionately harms armed security professionals, private-sector workers, and lower- and middle-income Virginians who must purchase ammunition and equipment to meet state requirements. That outcome is not equitable. If equity and access are guiding principles, the General Assembly should not price working people out of compliance with the law or impose selective taxes on constitutional activity. I urge the committee to reject HB 919.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094

As a law-abiding citizen of the Commonwealth of Virginia, I urge you to vote NO on HB's 709, 919, and 1094. Virginia ended the last fiscal year with a $2+ Billion surplus. These proposed taxes are only meant to hinder and discourage law-abiding gun owners. They are also regressive in that they inhibit low income citizens from exercising their 2nd Amendment Rights to protect themselves and their loved ones.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by.

I oppose HBs 1094, 919, and 207, which levy excessive taxes on law-abiding gun owners for no apparent reason. Of all the gun control bills, these seem to be particularly punitive in nature, having not even the veneer of a public safety rationale. They just seem intended to exploit gun owners to raise revenue for pet Democrat projects, all while Virginia runs a budget surplus. Voters are noticing who Democrats are taking tax revenue from and who they are giving it to. You all are making national news with your naked wealth redistribution program every day. The voters will punish Democrats for it at the voting booth the first chance they get.

Dear Delegates, I am writing to urge you to oppose House Bills 207, 919, and 1094. These proposals would place additional financial barriers on lawful Virginians seeking to exercise their right to keep and bear arms. While public safety is important, policies that substantially increase the cost of commonly owned firearms, ammunition, or related equipment risk turning a constitutional right into something only affordable for those with greater financial means. Virginia’s Constitution and the Second Amendment recognize an individual right that should not depend on income level. When fees or taxes become significant enough to discourage ordinary citizens from lawful ownership, the burden falls most heavily on lower- and middle-income residents — the very people who may rely most on accessible means of self-defense. There are many ways to promote safety without creating disproportionate economic obstacles. I respectfully ask that you consider approaches that focus on enforcement against criminal misuse rather than measures that broadly impact compliant citizens. For these reasons, I ask you to vote no on these bills.

I oppose ALL of the above gun bills. I am not a criminal never have been . Our Goverment can not protect me , my family or my property I have a God given right to bear arms also 2A rights .You work for ME !! You are suppose to represent ME ! Stop the over reach . Do something that benefits the American citizens , Healthcare, economy, get rid of All these taxes you have burdened the people with , Finish deporting illegal immigrates .

As a retired federal officer (Not ICE), I am concerned about a few things; the proposed magazine and firearms ban, leaving Virginia citizens unprotected against criminals who will not follow the laws, and the retired Federal, State and Local officers who DO NOT have the ability to purchase their duty firearm and 15 round magazines. As retired officers, most of us are still quietly acting as Sheepdogs, still watching over our neighbors and strangers. Not exempting retired officers from the magazine ban can be catastrophic, whether you realize it or not. While some state and local officers have the ability to purchase their duty firearm and 15 round mags, some municipalities and all Federal officers do NOT have this luxury, and it will create a disparity among those who can purchase and keep their 15 round magazines and those who cannot by either law or policy. The US Constitution does not regulate what firearms Americans can keep, with some exceptions; but it DOES permit US Citizens to keep & bear arms. Historically kept firearms have been recognized by the high courts as not illegal and have ruled in favor of this. Like many, I feel that this "gun grab" as it's called was rushed through too quickly without considering the retirees who have served this state with honor and dignity. I urge you to not just ban 15 round mags for our citizens, but especially for the retirees. The way the language is currently written, the 15 round ban will not affect officers who have the ability to purchase their duty firearms upon retirement, but would not apply to many others including all federal officers & agents. Not a good way to keep your voters; and could be considered biased by the high courts. We are all the same; we served and protected. Thank you.

HB207: $500 tax on suppressors. This sounds like a poll tax that a Virginia resident would have to pay prior to exercising a constitutional right to own and shoot firearms. Might as well combine this with the Poll tax that was implemented for blacks and poor whites to vote . Oh wait, that tax was declared illegal. As should this tax. HB919/HB1094: 11% excise tax This sounds like a poll tax that a Virginia resident would have to pay prior to exercising a constitutional right to own and shoot firearms. Might as well combine this with the Poll tax that was implemented for blacks and poor whites to vote. Oh wait, that tax was declared illegal, as should this tax. I bet minority citizens will LOVE THIS tax, don't you think????

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094. These bills are unconstitutional!

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, HB 1094.

I oppose the freedom of my right to bear arms I added this to my objection. Any law, federal or state, that conflicts with the U.S. Constitution is invalid and void because the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Under the Supremacy Clause (Article VI, Clause 2), courts are obligated to strike down such laws. This principle of judicial review ensures that constitutional rights are upheld. Key aspects regarding laws contrary to the Constitution include: Void Ab Initio: A law inconsistent with the Constitution is considered invalid, and courts must treat it as unenforceable. Supremacy Clause: This clause binds judges in every state, meaning federal law takes priority over conflicting state laws. Judicial Review: Federal courts, led by the Supreme Court, have the final authority to determine if statutes are constitutional.

I oppose all of these bills as they are against to 2nd Amendment. More importantly, do you really believe that criminals will follow these laws? No. They will continue to commit crimes and if necessary go out of state to acquire what they need. Law abiding patriots, when armed are the best deterrent to crime! I also assume that you folks will not have personal protection details and if you do they will not be allowed to carry the type of firearms you are trying to outlaw!

Good day, As a lifelong Democrat I respectfully ask the committee to vote against HB 207 (suppressor tax). Suppressors are an important aid in hearing protection for hunters and recreational shooters; for outdoor ranges or shooters that are hunting or shooting on their own property, they help keep the noise down for neighbors. Suppressors are not commonly used in crime; in fact, a suppressor has not been used in a crime in Virginia since 2019. In order to obtain a suppressor in the United States of America, the purchaser must submit paperwork to the ATF that requests permission to acquire a suppressor, along with fingerprints, background check, and a passport photo. Once the paperwork is submitted the ATF performs a background check and then decides to approve or deny the application. These are not items you walk into the gun shop and walk out with ten minutes later- in stark contrast, in fact, to most Western European countries, where that actually is how you buy a suppressor. The lack of a $200 federal tax on the tax stamp required to buy a suppressor does not mean that you don't have to do the paperwork with the ATF. A $500 tax on suppressors in Virginia would do little more than disenfranchise those without much money from being able to buy them, and increase costs for everyone across the board that is trying to protect their hearing or be polite to their neighbors. In addition, as a lifelong Democrat I respectfully ask the committee to vote against HB's 919 and 1094 (firearms and ammunition taxes). Prices for food, utilities, and housing are rising across the board and inflation continues to climb. Taxes on firearms and ammunition is not common-sense gun legislation, it is a brutal financial attack on the millions of Virginians that own firearms. If we want to solve the problem of gun violence the answer isn't to infringe on a constitutional right (churches don't pay taxes, and you don't get charged a tax to speak your mind or vote), it's to make it so that people to do not feel compelled to resort to violence to make ends meet. In other words, economic and labor legislation is what will fix gun violence (and a lot of other problems, I might add), not just making firearms and ammunition more expensive. High taxes on firearms and ammunition will do little more than raise costs for everyone and specifically disenfranchise low-income Virginians of their right to own and use firearms within the confines of the law. Thank you for taking my comments into consideration and I hope that you will vote against HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094.

I strongly oppose these bills. Adding an 11% tax to firearms and ammunition seems like a targeted tax against a constitutional right. Could this committee imagine adding an 11% sales tax to just the sale of bibles, Qurans, or Torah? Would this legislative body believe that would be a constitutional infringement? I imagine the answer to that question would be yes. Please consider opposing these bills and striking them down. Thank you for your time.

Aganist these bills that attack the second amendment ¡!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HB's 207, 919 and 1094 share some common traits. (1) They do NOTHING to improve public safety. (2) They are money-grabbing efforts by the current Legislative Bodies in Richmond. (The Commonwealth of Virginia already collects more than enough tax money. If the Legislative Bodies and Executive Branch would be good stewards of our tax dollars there would not be a need to create more ways to separate Virginians from their funds.) These, and bills like this, need to be defeated and defeated now.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, HB 1094, I feel these bills do not represent the interests of our state and do not reflect the majority of the citizens.

I oppose HB207/HB919 andHB1094

I passionately oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

HB207 is not an attempt at public safety, but rather an outrageous money-grab on the part of the Commonwealth. The end result is that the wealthy can own a suppressor and the State gets richer. HB 919 and HB1094 is yet another money-grab on the part of the Commonwealth...unreasonable taxation on a commodity.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

Any law, federal or state, that conflicts with the U.S. Constitution is invalid and void because the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Under the Supremacy Clause (Article VI, Clause 2), courts are obligated to strike down such laws. This principle of judicial review ensures that constitutional rights are upheld. Key aspects regarding laws contrary to the Constitution include: Void Ab Initio: A law inconsistent with the Constitution is considered invalid, and courts must treat it as unenforceable. Supremacy Clause: This clause binds judges in every state, meaning federal law takes priority over conflicting state laws. Judicial Review: Federal courts, led by the Supreme Court, have the final authority to determine if statutes are constitutional.

The increase of taxes for firearms, ammo, and accessories is 100% partisan tax increase on the gun community that doesn’t pose a safety problem in the state. These taxes will not create a safer Virginia or alter the amount of gun violence that takes place.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. These bills, if passed into state law, would immediately be repugnant to the U.S. Constitution, thus rendering them null and void. These proposed bills would be immediate violations of the Natural Rights of man, which the U.S. Constitution does not grant but acknowledges. As a legal American Citizen, as a legal citizen of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and as a free man with inalienable Natural Rights endowed by our Creator, I hereby voice my opposition to these unconstitutional bills.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. They are unconstitutional and should be voted down. Address the real issue, criminals and their actions, not law abiding citizens.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094…these blatantly unconstitutional Bills have no place in a free society.

I oppose HB919, HB1094, and HB207. These taxes and unconstitutional—and unreasonable as a matter of basic sense. Suppressors are virtually never used in crimes. They are safety devices. The scale of the suppressor tax is also confiscatory and unreasonable, a clear effort at a ban by making these items too expensive for most people to obtain. As for the 11% tax, I cannot imagine a sensible rationale for taxing a basic civil right, nor is it constitutional to do so. This law will not reduce crime; people who want to commit crimes will not be dissuaded by an 11% tax. The clear purpose is to punish citizens of the Commonwealth for exercising their constitutional rights. It is as odious as an 11% sur-tax on books. I also cannot imagine a more egregious example of the General Assembly making plain that it despises rural Virginians, most of whom own firearms. Any elected official who supports these laws should be ashamed of their ignorance and their hostility to the approximately 45% of Commonwealth citizens who have firearms.

I'll keep it simple, there is no justification for these taxes. This is clearly political retribution being pushed on law abiding citizens.

I oppose these bills!!

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB 1094

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

I oppose these bills marked above, HB 207, 919, 1094. VOTE NO! These bills infringe upon my right to protect and defend myself if needed.

I oppose bills HB207, HB919, HB1094

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by. This message might be used by a few people as it was written by the Culpeper County 2A Facebook page. Make no mistake, I truly feel strong in what is written and laws like these will only cause more harm than good for the law-abiding citizens in this state.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose the passing of HB207, HB1094, and HB919. I am a constituent of Prince William County and a citizen in good standing and ask that you please do not infringe upon my constitutional right to bear these arms. It is stated in our, mine and your United States Constitution and there gives me these rights. Also being voted on and made law by the Supreme Court of these United States of America. We the People elect you. We the people do not give you permission to take these rights. We The People do not want you to disregard Federal law !! In doing so any Federal recourse funnels down hill !! Thank you in advance for doing the right thing by the constituents of Va. Honestly Doug Fisher

Im a resident in the DMV area and I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. My rights shall not be infringed. Any law, federal or state, that conflicts with the U.S. Constitution is invalid and void because the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Under the Supremacy Clause (Article VI, Clause 2), courts are obligated to strike down such laws. This principle of judicial review ensures that constitutional rights are upheld. Key aspects regarding laws contrary to the Constitution include: Void Ab Initio: A law inconsistent with the Constitution is considered invalid, and courts must treat it as unenforceable. Supremacy Clause: This clause binds judges in every state, meaning federal law takes priority over conflicting state laws. Judicial Review: Federal courts, led by the Supreme Court, have the final authority to determine if statutes are constitutional.

Dear Members of the House Committee on Finance, I am writing to state my clear and unequivocal opposition to House Bill Nos. 207, 919, and 1094, and to the broader legislative approach they represent. I am opposed to these measures not only on technical or administrative grounds, but on principle. I oppose any and all forms of firearm regulation, including regulation imposed indirectly through taxation. Each of these bills seeks to use the tax code as a mechanism to discourage, burden, or penalize the lawful ownership, acquisition, or distribution of firearms, ammunition, or related components. Regardless of how they are framed procedurally, these proposals function as regulatory instruments, not neutral revenue measures. HB 207 imposes a flat $500 excise tax on firearm suppressors—devices that are already heavily regulated at the federal level and widely recognized as safety equipment. A flat tax of this magnitude is plainly punitive, bears no relationship to product value or public cost, and exists solely to price ordinary citizens out of lawful ownership. HB 919 and HB 1094 impose elevated percentage-based excise taxes on firearms and ammunition, while explicitly exempting government agencies and law enforcement. This creates a two-tier system in which the state reserves unrestricted access to arms for itself while deliberately increasing the cost and friction imposed on private citizens. I reject the premise that the exercise of a fundamental right should be treated as a taxable privilege. Taken together, these bills reveal a coordinated attempt to achieve gun control objectives through fiscal means—avoiding direct prohibitions while still suppressing lawful conduct through financial pressure. This is not sound tax policy, and it is not an appropriate use of the Commonwealth’s taxing authority. Further, earmarking the revenue from these targeted taxes to specific policy programs underscores their regulatory intent. When a narrowly tailored tax is imposed on a constitutionally protected activity and the proceeds are directed to programs designed to reduce or discourage that same activity, the tax ceases to be neutral and becomes a tool of coercion. I do not support amendments, consolidation, or further study of these proposals. I oppose them outright. I also oppose the broader concept of using taxation as a substitute for direct firearm regulation. Virginians do not forfeit constitutional protections by engaging in lawful commerce, and those protections should not depend on one’s ability to absorb artificially imposed costs. I urge the Committee to reject HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094 in their entirety and to refrain from advancing any future measures that seek to regulate firearms, ammunition, or related components through the tax code or otherwise. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully, Obin Robinson Norfolk, VA US Navy Veteran with 20 years of honorable service

I am a proud Virginian. I represent thousands of Virginia's like me. I strongly oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094. Virginia will not lie down and die like California. There is a reason the woman on our state flag is armed. She stands tall with her foot over a defeated tyrant. Her weapon in hand. Chains broken. The living room I am writing mere feet from was built a few years before this country declared its independence. The same spirit and red hot blood that our forefathers had runs through my veins. Let us not be so naive to think that criminals will follow laws and that politicians will always do good to those they are sworn to serve. In the face of unconstitutional laws, it is my duty as an American to resist. I will include this next piece here since it is questionable that anyone who signs these bills has read it before; "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed". Thank you for your time and for hearing these words. God bless our beautiful state and may he keep us and guide us by His love. -Taylor Helm

I support the comments of Virginia Civil Defense League on these bills.

I strongly oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094, and will actively and aggressively advocate against anyone voting for them in future elections. Furthermore, given any opportunity I will join in and participate in lawsuits resulting from these efforts.

Dear General Assembly Members; HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are unnecessary and retaliatory in nature, will have a negative impact on large and small Virginia businesses, and will impose undo hardships for many. These bills clearly target the 423,000+ law-abiding Virginia firearm owners and countless businesses reliant on the industry as their primary source of income. With the $200 NFA tax lifted, a $500 suppressor tax and 11% sales tax on firearms and ammunition are retaliatory and serve no other purpose than to target and financially burden Virginian firearm owners, especially those at an economic disadvantage, which is an egregious disservice to low-income earners. The General Assembly should instead pursue common sense and bipartisan legislation aimed at the affordability that was promised its citizens. HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are insults to good people with good intentions seeking a good life, especially when we closed 2025 with a general fund revenue surplus of $2.7B dollars. I oppose all these bills and hold you accountable to stay true to your sworn oath of office and Constitution of Virginia by opposing HB217, HB919, and HB1094. The governing body is in place to serve The People, not limit their well being. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by. "

I oppose HB bills 207, 919 and 1094. Vote NO. These bill infringe upon my right to defend myself and others if needed. VOTE NO.

These laws are in direct violation of our 2nd amendment and will not be enforced by any law enforcement that remember the oath they took. Stop making laws that restrict and violate the rights of law abiding citizens especially while you are going soft on criminals committing crimes with guns.

Unfair taxes opposed to HB 1094 and HB919

"I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by. "

I urge you to oppose HB207 (Gamarra), which creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing? I also urge you to oppose both HB919 (Lopez)& HB1094 (Laufer), which creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Thank you for your time!

HB207, HB919 and HB1094 I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094 are in blatant violation of the below... Any law, federal or state, that conflicts with the U.S. Constitution is invalid and void because the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Under the Supremacy Clause (Article VI, Clause 2), courts are obligated to strike down such laws. This principle of judicial review ensures that constitutional rights are upheld. Key aspects regarding laws contrary to the Constitution include: Void Ab Initio: A law inconsistent with the Constitution is considered invalid, and courts must treat it as unenforceable. Supremacy Clause: This clause binds judges in every state, meaning federal law takes priority over conflicting state laws.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

Dear General Assembly Members; HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are unnecessary and retaliatory in nature, will have a negative impact on large and small Virginia businesses, and will impose undo hardships for many. These bills clearly target the 423,000+ law-abiding Virginia firearm owners and countless businesses reliant on the industry as their primary source of income. With the $200 NFA tax lifted, a $500 suppressor tax and 11% sales tax on firearms and ammunition are retaliatory and serve no other purpose than to target and financially burden Virginian firearm owners, especially those at an economic disadvantage, which is an egregious disservice to low-income earners. The General Assembly should instead pursue common sense and bipartisan legislation aimed at the affordability that was promised its citizens. HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are insults to good people with good intentions seeking a good life, especially when we closed 2025 with a general fund revenue surplus of $2.7B dollars. I oppose all these bills and hold you accountable to stay true to your sworn oath of office and Constitution of Virginia by opposing HB217, HB919, and HB1094. The governing body is in place to serve The People, not limit their well being. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I oppose bill HB207,HB919,HB1094.

I oppose HB207 HB919 HB1094 Stop this insanity

❌ Oppose HB 207 (Keys-Gamarra) HB 207 imposes additional firearm restrictions that burden lawful gun owners while doing nothing to address violent crime. Laws that target possession rather than criminal misuse undermine constitutional protections and divert attention from enforcing existing laws against violent offenders. ❌ Oppose HB 566 (McNamara) HB 566 expands government control over lawful firearm ownership without historical justification or evidence of effectiveness. The Second Amendment protects the right of ordinary citizens to keep and bear arms, and broad regulatory schemes like this fail constitutional scrutiny under the Supreme Court’s Bruen framework. ❌ Oppose HB 919 (Lopez) HB 919 penalizes lawful firearm possession and commerce rather than criminal behavior. Public safety is not enhanced by placing additional legal and financial barriers on responsible citizens, and this bill risks chilling the exercise of a fundamental constitutional right. ❌ Oppose HB 954 (Watts) HB 954 advances sweeping firearm restrictions that are unsupported by historical precedent. Under the Constitution, rights cannot be limited simply because lawmakers believe regulation is preferable—restrictions must be narrowly tailored and historically grounded, which this bill is not. ❌ Oppose HB 1008 (Tran) HB 1008 infringes on the rights of law-abiding Virginians by expanding firearm prohibitions beyond constitutional limits. Collective punishment and preemptive restrictions violate due process and ignore the Supreme Court’s clear instruction that firearm regulations must align with historical tradition. ❌ Oppose HB 1094 (Laufer) HB 1094 imposes excessive regulatory burdens that disproportionately impact responsible gun owners while failing to deter criminal violence. The Constitution does not allow rights to be conditioned on convenience, compliance costs, or bureaucratic discretion. ❌ Oppose HB 1362 (McNamara) HB 1362 further erodes the Second Amendment by restricting access to commonly owned firearms and lawful activities. Policies that treat constitutional rights as privileges undermine public trust and expose the Commonwealth to costly and unnecessary litigation. ❌ Oppose HB 1474 (O’Quinn) HB 1474 expands government authority over private firearm ownership in ways that conflict with constitutional protections and established legal precedent. Virginia should focus on punishing criminal misuse of firearms—not restricting the rights of citizens who obey the law.

Taxes on Constitutionally protected items such as firearms and ammunition possessed by law abiding citizens is not only not “affordable”, it is tyrannical. These bills are forms of Jim Crow laws, meant to keep guns out of the hands of low income and minority citizens. Please vote these unconstitutional taxes down.

I oppose bill HB207,HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094 Stop this ridiculousness.

I OPPOSE these bills as do many other citizens that you represent. VOTE NO!!!

I oppose House Bill 207, House Bill 919 and House Bill 1094. House Bill 919 and House Bill 1094 both impose an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition; House Bill 207 adds a $500 tax on suppressors. These are regressive taxes that punish the working poor. A single mother in Louisa County who can only work part time has the same right to self-defense as a much wealthier constituent living in Alexandria, but these taxes may price her out of that right. Regarding HB 207, while movies and TV have led many to believe that suppressors allow one to discharge a firearm without being heard, that is not true; suppressors are safety devices. Hearing safe is far from silent. Both the CDC and NIOSH recognize that suppressors are the only tool capable of reducing dangerous gunfire noise at its source, making them critical for preventing lifelong hearing loss. Taxing safety equipment out of reach is bad public health policy.

I strongly oppose the following bills: HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094. None of these bills will do anything to stop gun violence. All they do is restrict the right of lawful citizens.. I propose a scenario to highlight this: All the anti-2A bills are passed along with the elimination of mandatory sentencing. It's Labor Day weekend '26 and you're out with your family at the farmers market. A criminal, not affected by the anti-2A bills, walks around with a modified assault weapon and 4-30 round magazines. They kill the cops in the immediate area and then open up on the citizens. 63 killed and dozens injured. Now inamige this...same scenario, but this time there are 5 legally armed citizens. Upon hearing the initial shots, they move to neutralize the criminal. 6 killed, plus one crimal out of jail bcz of no mandatory sentencing. Please think about the gun bills you're passing, and explain to me how they would have prevented the first scenario. I'll wait... Please tell me that the safety of those attending the market is enhanced by the elimination of legally owned firearms. The way I see it, all your proposed bills do is prevent the legal gun owner from defending themselves and those around them against the criminal, who you let out of jail. You see, the criminal isn't going to obey any laws, that's why they're criminals. They now know that whoever they target will be unarmed and easy prey...you, your husband/wife, kida, parents...for robbery, sexual assault, assault - battery, or worse...murder. Your vote to disarm legal gun owners only increases the likelihood of more gun violence because now, only the criminal is armed. Please tell me how this makes sense. Again, I'll wait... Respectfully, A Constitutionally back legal gun owner

On behalf of all second amendment supporters, these bills are unconstitutional go against our second amendment right. If these bills become law, it should go without saying that you all should expect major backlash from the citizens of this Commonwealth, or should I say Communistwealth with the bullshit laws that are being proposed.

I oppose these bills. The government doesn’t need new taxes on anything. Taxing citizens that are making purchases for self defense is wrong. Limiting the citizens options for self defense goes against our constitutional rights as well. The 2A says it will not be infringed. Doesn’t say within the limits set forth by government.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. This is unconstitutional

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094. Please stop intruding on our second amendment rights. Respectfully, instead of raising your salaries by 150%, maybe lower them so you don’t have to continue taxing us higher. You’re causing people to flee the state. Some moderate our governor is. I worked on Capitol Hill for 10 years and know what a fake looks like. Please stop ruining what was once a beautiful state to raise a family. I’m reconsidering with my wife now.

oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094"

February 9, 2026. I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. Gun control laws penalize the gun owners, not the violent criminals.

I oppose HB207, HB919, HB1094.

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by.

I oppose HB-1094, HB- 919 and HB-207.

I oppose these bills as being a citizen of the USA this is infringing on my second amendment rights. I’m a law abiding citizen and will defend my rights .Criminals will still posses guns and buy ammunition no matter what you try to impose.

I am against these bills.

I oppose these bills and they need to be voted against Thank you. George Francis

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094!!!

Yes I oppose HB 207 , HB 919 and HB 1094 please do not pass these unconstitutional bills!! Thanks

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB 1094.

To All Involved, We the People DO NOT want all of the tyrannically oppressive bills you are considering to be passed. Especially the ones related to OUR second amendment rights. No where in the constitution is a state given the authority to restrict any of OUR rights and freedoms guaranteed under the constitution. To make any attempt to do so is dancing precariously close to the line of exercising DESPOTISM over the people. Which is exactly why the founding fathers ensured we had a bill of rights written and ratified. At least take some time to seriously think through the implications of any legislation you may want to consider. V/R Charles

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

These bills are nothing but money grabs that will do nothing for public safety an just make purchasing items under these bills more expensive for law abideing citizens i ask you to vote no to both hb 1094 an hb 919. Thank you

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB 1094. These bills are ridiculous and an insult to law abiding Virginians. Will have zero affect on crime.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I am opposed to the new taxes outlined in House Bills 919, 1094 and 207. As Virginia currently has a budget surplus of nearly 2.7 billion dollars, I cannot help but conclude these bills are not about revenue. Rather, they appear to be collective punishment imposed upon law abiding gun owners. Apparently, this is on the theory they are responsible for the gun violence perpitrated by the criminal element and mentally ill, who do not follow the law. The Second Amendment is not tobacco and should not be treated as such. Thank you....

Any house bill that directly or indirectly excludes or increases the burden of lower income citizens from owning firearms is a direct violation of your oaths of office. Taxes should only be fair an reasonable and not hesitate a hindrance to ownership. They should also not be levied on individual categories unless the funds gathered are to aid in or compensate for damage cause by the category (for example, a has tax is used to repair roads from use). Taxes levied only on firearms and ammo should not be repressed in the general fund to be used for political pet projects, but instead utilized for firearm education, use to improve the municipal owned shooting ranges, or for hunter conservation efforts. None of these bills will make Virginia "safer", and regardless what your personal opinions of them is, you know that was never their intention. The purpose of the bills is to add another barrier to the legal ownership of firearms, and to use a state and federal constitutional right as a revenue stream. Instead of looking at your constituents as a bottomless wallet for you to take from, you should be looking at measures that balance the state budget instead of inflating it.

I respectfully urge the subcommittee not to advance HB 207 and HB 919. These bills impose heavy, punitive taxes on lawful behavior while doing little, if anything, to prevent violent crime or improve public safety. HB 207 introduces a $500 tax on the retail sale of firearm suppressors. Suppressors are already heavily regulated at the federal level and are commonly used for hearing protection and creating safer training environments. A flat $500 tax serves as a barrier that disproportionately affects working Virginians rather than criminals. Most individuals who commit firearm-related crimes do not acquire regulated items through lawful retail channels, which means this bill is unlikely to alter criminal behavior but will certainly penalize compliant citizens. It's important to note that in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, suppressors—commonly referred to as "sound moderators"—are often considered responsible safety equipment. They are used to protect shooters' hearing and to minimize disturbance to nearby residents and livestock. The UK government has even described sound moderators as tools for hearing protection and reducing noise disturbances, highlighting that these devices prioritize health and safety rather than serving any criminal purpose. HB 919 imposes an 11% tax on the retail sale of firearms and ammunition. This effectively acts as a “sin tax” on a constitutional right and a basic safety need—namely, ammunition for training and lawful self-defense. It will raise costs for ordinary families, new gun owners seeking training, hunters, sportsmen, and local small businesses, all without addressing the underlying causes of violence, such as repeat offenders, illegal trafficking, and gaps in targeted enforcement. If the goal is to create safer communities, the Commonwealth should focus on targeted, evidence-based interventions. This includes enforcing existing laws, addressing illegal possession and trafficking, and supporting programs that intervene with the small number of individuals most likely to commit violent offenses, rather than imposing broad taxes that mainly impact those who already follow the law. For these reasons, I ask you to oppose HB 207 and HB 919.

Increasing taxation on firearms,, ammunition and suppressors to discourage citizens from exercising their Second Amendment right has already been dealt with by the US Supreme Court. Which will be struck down in Virginia.

What happened to the campaign promise of cost cutting, lower taxes and making life more affordable for citizens? Defending the bills in court will use taxpayers cash, court time ,labor..Raising taxes on items you don't like and stating costs will lowered is a lie..from the general assembly to the governors office..Honor your oath and correct your lies with truth..Vote no on gun bills..

Politicians system of tax , spend, waste, is a system created by them ..This has been around for years A corrupt system of power. A group think of nonsense..Where they can only see there side and are blinded to any common sense..Will not listen to anyone and if they seem interested it is just to look good in front of everyone..They pretend to listen.But there mind is made up already on there own plans. The liberal base who voted for them include guns owners..This should tell you they don't care about there voting bloc..They know this will end up in court ..Wasting tax payers money ..The courts time..And don't care about citizens in general. There campaign mantra was cut costs for citizens.But taxpayer cash will be used to defend there gun bills

I urge you to vote No on HB bills 207, 919 and 1094. The financial and legal ramafications are purely to remove gun ownership by citizens in VA. Undoubtedly Unconstitutional and meant to harass VA Citizens.

I disagree with all three of these bills. It only restricts my 2nd amendment rights by making it increasingly costly to exercise the right! I strongly oppose!

First I would like to thank each of you for your dedication to our Commonwealth, it is appreciated. In my opinion these bills do nothing to curb gun violence of any kind and only penalize law abiding citizens. None of them should be passed. This is just another attack on our constitutional rights. I agree there need to be some guide lines and laws that need to be investigated and I would support bills that truly do reduce violence. Please start looking at what will really reduce violence of any kind.

In Opposition of HB207 ***--- HB 207 would effectively impose a punitive $500 state tax on firearm suppressors, on top of any federal requirements, making it significantly more expensive for law-abiding Virginians to purchase a safety device. This disproportionately affects working-class citizens and creates an undue financial barrier to lawful ownership and safety. Additionally, suppressors are often used to reduce hearing damage and improve safety during recreational shooting and hunting. Imposing a high tax discourages the purchase of hearing-protective equipment, contrary to public safety interests. A big concern that I have is the Constitutionality of a steep excise tax targeted at lawfully-used sporting equipment which may be viewed as a de-facto restriction rather than a bona fide tax. Targeted taxes on a specific class of constitutional rights carry potential constitutional concerns and could be seen as an infringement on lawful exercise of those rights. Finally, with the recent federal elimination of the $200 tax on suppressors, HB 207 would reimpose a larger state level cost, effectively nullifying the intended benefit of federal reform and raising the overall cost to consumers. In Opposition to bills HB919 and HB1094 ****----- Imposing an 11 % excise tax on firearms and ammunition — and potentially another 11 % on top of that — penalizes law-abiding Virginians exercising their legal rights. Many individuals rely on firearms and ammunition for self-defense, hunting, and recreation. Excessive taxation makes these basic tools unaffordable for working families. Not to mention there is no clear evidence that additional excise taxes on lawfully purchased firearms or ammunition reduce violent crime. Criminals, by definition, do not purchase items through legal channels. Raising taxes on legal sales will not meaningfully impact criminal behavior. I am very focused on supporting businesses in our local communities in Virginia. Gun shops, shooting ranges, and related small businesses already operate on thin margins. Additional taxes undermine local commerce, discourage investment, and could lead to closures, layoffs, and reduced tourism associated with hunting and shooting sports. Additionally, HB 1094’s proposal to levy a separate 11 % tax on top of HB 919’s tax would double-tax Virginians purchasing firearms or ammunition. Stacking taxes in this way is especially punitive and places a disproportionate burden on rural and moderate-income residents. Any tax policy must balance revenue needs with respect for constitutional rights. Targeted taxation of a specific category of constitutionally protected items — like firearms — risks treating lawful owners as revenue sources rather than citizens with rights. In summary HB 919 directs funds to a ‘Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund,’ but there is limited clarity about how funds will be spent or evaluated. Without clear accountability and measurable outcomes, such taxation lacks transparency and taxpayer protections. These bills are blatantly disingenuous for law-abiding citizens who are simply exercising our God-given right to the 2nd Amendment. Please do not continue to push these bills forward.

So Virginia is essentially taxing a basic civil right. How will the Virginia Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund actually use this money? What have they accomplished other than syphon money from the pockets of Virginia's citizens, and probably lining the pockets of Virginia's elected elite? Show us the accomplishments. Show us how this is a solution to any problem regarding violence in Virginia or anywhere else. This is nothing more than a sin tax. Owning a gun is not a sin. It is simply another attempt to impede a basic civil right. What real Virginians and all Americans want are ideas and actions that address the root causes of violence, such as mental illness, social instability, or criminal organizations, including illegal alien gangs. We don't need taxes that merely steal people's money for a cause you obviously do not have a solution for, given a history of decades of attacks on lawful gun ownership that haven't prevented any violence whatsoever.

As a tax payer, voter, and law abiding citizen of this Commonwealth, I request you vote no on HB1094, HB919, HB207

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I oppose these racist bills! They prevent black and brown people from exercising their 2nd Amendment rights and from protecting themselves. The suppressor tax causes undue hearing damage by needlessly increasing the cost of a safety tool so these bills are not about safety but a denial of rights by emposing an undue financial burden on the very people it should be protecting.

I urge you to vote "NO" on all the above bills,. We are already taxed enough! I believe the new Governor pledged to make VA affordable and that would logically mean no more taxation!

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

Good morning, and thank you for the opportunity to speak. I’m here today to address why this proposed state tax on suppressors is unnecessary, economically harmful, and disconnected from public safety. At the federal level, lawmakers recently removed the $200 federal tax stamp that had long been attached to suppressors. That change recognized an important reality: suppressors are not criminal tools—they are safety devices. They reduce harmful noise, protect hearing, and lessen the impact on surrounding communities. Despite that federal shift, this proposal would move our state in the opposite direction by imposing a $500 state tax on the very same lawful item. Suppressors remain heavily regulated even without the federal tax. Purchasers are still subject to extensive background checks, fingerprinting, registration requirements, and approval processes through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Nothing about this bill improves oversight or accountability. It simply adds cost. That cost has real consequences. A $500 state tax will not deter criminals—because criminals do not acquire suppressors through lawful channels. What it will do is suppress economic activity inside this state. Consumers will purchase elsewhere, businesses will lose sales, and in-state manufacturers and dealers will be put at a competitive disadvantage. Lawful commerce will decline, while neighboring states benefit. This proposal effectively replaces a removed federal tax with a larger state-level penalty, undoing economic momentum rather than building on it. Any projected revenue must be weighed against reduced sales, lost jobs, and businesses choosing not to operate here at all. There is also a fairness issue. When the government stacks fees this high, it creates a system where lawful ownership is dictated by income. That is not public safety—it is a financial barrier imposed on compliance. Finally, this bill sets a troubling precedent. If the state can justify a $500 tax on suppressors today, it becomes easier to justify new taxes on other lawful equipment tomorrow. That kind of incremental policy creep erodes trust and punishes responsibility. Suppressors reduce noise. They protect hearing. They are already regulated. The federal government recognized this by removing its tax burden. This bill ignores that reality and replaces it with an even heavier one—at the expense of our state’s economy and law-abiding citizens. For those reasons, I urge you to oppose this proposal. Thank you for your time.

These bills are nothing more than punitive taxes for those wishing to exercise a Constitutionally-protected Natural Right. There is no grounds for these taxes any more than for taxing hundreds of dollars to check out a library book or having a poll tax of hundreds of dollars to vote. None of these will stand up to the inevitable court challenges, and Virginia tax payers will be on the hook to foot that bill as well. The Commonwealth went into 2026 with a $2,700,000,000 budget surplus, yet the General Assembly, under Democrat rule, seems determined to further tax the citizens. These bills are a disgrace and I strongly urge you to relegate each to the trashcan of history.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Will this bill also implement an excise on other constitutional rights? Why not implement an excise tax on paper, pens, pencils, typewriters, or printers used by authors exercising their First Amendment rights to express political dissent? An excise tax on a constitutionally-granted civil right is a 'sin tax.' It does not matter if you're taxing Second Amendment or First Amendment rights, or any civil right. Why implement a bill that discriminates against low-income citizens by adding unnecessary burdens and obstructions that discourage exercising their civil rights?

How did the authors of the bills such as a 500 dollar tax on suppressors,11 percent tax on ammo, create the numbers? Research ? Educated guess? Tax fairy? Similar to the dog walking tax...Nonsense tax meant to fund bloated programs...If as a delegate and if you have common sense you would vote against all of the anti gun bills..Citizens ,Lafave vs Fairfax county is a case of Fairfax county being sued in court by Lafave. Fairfax denied carry in parks.. The case had made its way to the supreme Court..Judge Roberts granted the writ on the shadow docket. Fairfax has until Feb 16 26 to answer ..If the case is accepted and plaintiff wins..This will affect other gun laws..

Very much opposed to these bills. Looks like the Dems in Richmond are determined to disarm their Black voters. Very obvious that if they truly believe getting a Drivers License is a burden on Black people then adding exorbitant taxes and licensing costs on firearms and ammunition must be a conscious effort on the Dem's part to disarm the Black population. This is very sad!

HB 207 - This bill contradicts current federal regulations. Oppose. HB 919 and 1094 - These bills preclude disadvantaged populations (who Democrats are supposed to care about) from purchasing a product they are permitted to purchase under the Second Amendment of the US Constitution and Article 1, Section 13 of the VA State Constitution. This financial burden may have the unintended consequence of forcing people toward illicit purchases. Oppose.

More contradiction from politicians. You asked for votes based on a promise of improving affordability, and out of the gate you want to tax everything including basic human rights. These taxes are unconstitutional and we will easily defeat them in court. We will also be requesting any monies collected be refunded.

I STRONGLY OPPOSE this bill. If you vote yes it will show that you are going against honest Virginians. Please vote NO!

Adding a higher tax on firearms will make it so only the rich can afford them. This will not stop crime in any way or form.

I oppose poll taxes which limit the rights of citizens to only wealthy individuals. The wealthy elite should not be the only ones allowed freedom.

his bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year

Greetings: I write to oppose bills HB207, HB919, and HB1094. In the interest of the people of Virginia, increasing taxes on suppressors and introducing 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth does not improve the economic environment of Va., reduce class difference between citizens, or improve well being. Reducing the burden to acquiring suppressors allows Virginians to practice lawful use of firearms in a way that does not cause undue disruption to neighbors and protects hearing for greater well-being. Businesses who can sell more suppressors would be better off, and thus more economically contributive, if they're able to sell without the burdensome tax. Concerning businesses, it is also an undue burden on manufacturers to shoulder this excise tax and likely pass it to customers. It is nearly equivalent enacting the same tax on publishers of media containing lawful speech simply for do so and thus making that media more burdensome to acquire by lawful citizens. In the case of all three bills, it does not benefit business, Virginians, or Virginia as a whole and they should be rejected outright.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

Vote NO on these bills. They take away Virginians rights.

Charging an extraordinary tax or any tax on a device that will protect my hearing and the hearing of those around me is unconscionable. I oppose this tax and want to see a NO vote on bill HB 207. I oppose any new taxes on ammo, parts, supplies and guns. Be it at the retail, whole sale or manufacture level. This is a “sin tax,” that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Vote NO on HB 919 and HB 1094.

These bills do nothing but set up financial roadblocks for law abiding citizens to own firearm accessories under the guise of public safety. With a slew of incoming taxes already about to become law, we as Virginia citizens can quite literally not afford to have anymore unjust and unconstitutional laws reign supreme over our livelihoods and liberties.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. There are a lot of things that need to be addressed to make the Commonwealth better for it citizens. This is not one of them. Kind of funny you didn't run on these issues during the last election. You can be sure the next election will point out how you serve your major donors and not your constituents or the Constitution. I used to be a democrat and a significant donor. But ever since I realized that the Virginia democratic party supported racists like the last and current democratic governor. I would rather vote for a rock then any so called democrat.

As the Assistant Manager, Mid-Atlantic States for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), I respectfully urge you to oppose House Bill 919 (HB 919) and House Bill 1094 (HB 1094) – discriminatory legislation that would establish an 11% excise tax rate for firearms and ammunition manufacturers, intended to provide funding for the “Virginia Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund” which will likely result in the financial burden falling upon law abiding sportsmen and women. Virginia’s sportsmen and women are already the backbone of the funding structure for conservation efforts that benefit wildlife and their habitat throughout the Commonwealth, as well as the citizenry at large. The passage of financially discriminatory legislation like HB 919 and HB 1094, will likely result in an unintended and consequential diminishment of the state’s conservation funding.

Please vote no on HB1094 and HB919. An 11% tax is unfairly burdensome to the people Virginia. We should not have to pay extra for the right to protect ourselves. This is a direct attack on all people of moderate income, (which is most of your constituents), and is an attack on the 2nd amendment. I will actively rally others and donate to groups that seek to depose you if you continue your attack on law abiding Virginians

I’m writing to let my concerns known on all of these laws that are being voted upon. We as law aboding citizens are the only ones that will be affected and obey these laws. You want to decrease the time criminals do for horrible crimes such as murder and rape, but make law abiding citizens (that have done nothing wrong) into criminals. We obey the laws (most i see as unconstitutional) and then you turn around and make those rights into crimes and punishments. “Assault Weapons” as you refer to them have been around since the 1940s. Everything i have obtained, i did so legally. Now you want to make them illegal, and even go as far as to punish me for doing so. Why do we play these ignorant games. Legal one day, illegal another! We have right under the 2nd Amendment. How does doing any of this make people “safe”? Criminals will use whatever they do to commit crimes, cause that is their very nature. Disarm the public and allow criminals to take advantage of your laws. We will be less safe. How does charging $500 tax on suppressors make anyone safe? You are just mad they did away with the tax. We will still purchase these items, but you just punish us for doing so. You do nothing to make us safe , and you tax us on more than just firearms! You take, and take and take, yet provide nothing more! What happened to running on affordability? Taxes on dog grooming, home repairs, vehicle repairs, and so much more. Increase our taxes when our state was doing so well that we had a surplus if 2.2 billion dollars. You count on people being ignorant, but by doing that you educate them. I hope you can put you pride and egos aside, and realize we are starting to do better. All you will do is hurt your citizens with these numerous amount of laws and taxes. As politicians you are called upon to make our lives better. You cant make us safer by what you propose. You will only destroy our trust and our economy. We are not ignorant people that need to be taken care of. We need you to get out if our way and let us live our lives and protect ourselves. One last thing. Europe did this to their population and knife crimes skyrocketed. Everyone of you know this. Do the right thing and empower us to live our lives. Don't put more laws and taxes on us. There is more to Virginia than Richmond. As a veteran i have taken the same oath. I still honor that oath, as i hope you all do.

I’m writing to let my concerns known on all of these laws that are being voted upon. We as law aboding citizens are the only ones that will be affected and obey these laws. You want to decrease the time criminals do for horrible crimes such as murder and rape, but make law abiding citizens (that have done nothing wrong) into criminals. We obey the laws (most i see as unconstitutional) and then you turn around and make those rights into crimes and punishments. “Assault Weapons” as you refer to them have been around since the 1940s. Everything i have obtained, i did so legally. Now you want to make them illegal, and even go as far as to punish me for doing so. Why do we play these ignorant games. Legal one day, illegal another! We have right under the 2nd Amendment. How does doing any of this make people “safe”? Criminals will use whatever they do to commit crimes, cause that is their very nature. Disarm the public and allow criminals to take advantage of your laws. We will be less safe. How does charging $500 tax on suppressors make anyone safe? You are just mad they did away with the tax. We will still purchase these items, but you just punish us for doing so. You do nothing to make us safe , and you tax us on more than just firearms! You take, and take and take, yet provide nothing more! What happened to running on affordability? Taxes on dog grooming, home repairs, vehicle repairs, and so much more. Increase our taxes when our state was doing so well that we had a surplus if 2.2 billion dollars. You count on people being ignorant, but by doing that you educate them. I hope you can put you pride and egos aside, and realize we are starting to do better. All you will do is hurt your citizens with these numerous amount of laws and taxes. As politicians you are called upon to make our lives better. You cant make us safer by what you propose. You will only destroy our trust and our economy. We are not ignorant people that need to be taken care of. We need you to get out if our way and let us live our lives and protect ourselves. One last thing. Europe did this to their population and knife crimes skyrocketed. Everyone of you know this. Do the right thing and empower us to live our lives. Don't put more laws and taxes on us. There is more to Virginia than Richmond. As a veteran i have taken the same oath. I still honor that oath, as i hope you all do.

I suffer from persistent tinnitus as a result of considerable target shooting in my youth. While suppressors get a lot of attention in movies and TV, they aren't a significant factor in crime in Virginia. I'd ask the committee to avoid taxes designed to discourage their use.

HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094 violate constitutionally protected rights and disproportionately burden low-income Virginians, effectively converting a fundamental right into a privilege available only to those who can afford it. These bills infringe the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and Article I, §13 of the Virginia Constitution by placing substantial restrictions on the ability of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms without sufficient justification or narrow tailoring. The right to keep and bear arms has been recognized as an individual, fundamental right, and laws burdening its exercise must meet heightened constitutional scrutiny—standards these bills fail to satisfy. In addition to their constitutional defects, these measures impose significant financial barriers on firearm ownership and lawful carry. Fees, mandatory training costs, recurring renewals, compliance expenses, travel requirements, and the risk of legal penalties fall most heavily on low-income individuals. For many Virginians, these costs are not minor inconveniences but insurmountable obstacles to exercising a protected right. Low-income residents are often the most reliant on lawful self-defense, particularly in rural or high-crime areas where police response times may be longer. By increasing the cost and complexity of compliance, these bills undermine the ability of economically disadvantaged individuals to protect themselves and their families, while doing little to deter criminal behavior by those who already disregard the law. The government may not condition the exercise of a fundamental right on a person’s financial means. Just as poll taxes and excessive fees tied to speech or voting are unconstitutional, laws that price citizens out of exercising the right to keep and bear arms are equally impermissible. HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094 create a two-tiered system of rights—one for those who can afford compliance and one for those who cannot. Laws that both violate constitutional protections and disproportionately burden the poor are unjust and should be rejected.

Do not vote for these bills

Why are you singling out my purchase of a Constitutionally-protected firearm or firearm accessory for special and excessive taxation? This has nothing to do with safety and everything to do with a desire to prevent honest people from obtaining firearms.

HB919 & HB1094 creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers. Our new Governor campaigned on reducing the cost of living for Virginians, although it seems this promise doesn't apply to law-abiding gun owners - and as it turns out, it doesn't apply to anybody given all the new taxes proposed. These bills amount to a 'sin tax' for a lawful activity - and a basic civil right. Why stop there? Let's relive the past and bring the poll tax back and raise even more revenue on the backs of the law abiding who are simply exercising a basic civil right. Let's raise yet more cash and pass an excise tax for book publishers as well!

HB919 & HB1094 creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers. Our new Governor campaigned on reducing the cost of living for Virginians, although it seems this promise doesn't apply to law-abiding gun owners - and as it turns out, it doesn't apply to anybody given all the new taxes proposed. These bills amount to a 'sin tax' for a lawful activity - and a basic civil right. Why stop there? Let's relive the past and bring the poll tax back and raise even more revenue on the backs of the law abiding who are simply exercising a basic civil right. Let's raise yet more cash and pass an excise tax for book publishers as well! As far as HB207 goes, the $500 tax on suppressors - this is yet another unwarranted punishment singling out gun owners. Owners of NFA-controlled items such as suppressors are some of the most law-abiding on Earth, yet they are punished - in advance - for simply wanting to preserve their hearing, either at the range or while engaging in lawful hunting activities. The last crime committed with a legally-owned suppressor was in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone' - lots of good those zones do - so this is hardly a pressing public safety issue. It is yet another solution in search of a problem, and is yet another slap in the face of the law-abiding. But that's what passes for governing these days when Democrats run things: punish the law abiding and reward the criminals.

I oppose any and all legislation that goes against the second amendment. The 2nd amendment is a right not a privilege that can be taken away period . How about dealing with the criminals and being harder on them like reinstating the death penalty!

I oppose the "sin" taxes you are placing on lawful citizens for purchases you oppose. There is not a single item in the Commonwealth the General Assembly has placed a 3 figure tax on. Additionally I do not understand how anyone can support taxing poorer people out of the opportunity to own a device that reduces traumatic brain injuries such as a suppressor.

This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing?

I am opposing HB207, HB919 and HB1094 (which are similar in argument). I do not understand the opposition to suppressors, and I cannot understand regulating them. They are not the silencers from the movies that let you kill people without being heard. They are legitimate safety devices that both quiet the noise of a gun and soften the blast, making shooting safer for everyone. This is the same as telling construction workers that they can buy helmets, but it's a $500 tax on top of the cost, and anyone who buys a helmet is a construction-obsessed freak that needs to be registered for everyone's safety. HB919 and HB 1094 I am opposing because "money to prevent gun violence" is not a plan, and increasing the cost of ammo (and guns) only ensures that people practice less, making them less safe. I would oppose any additional tax without a plan, like if there was an 11% tax on adopting kitten to "prevent cruelty to animals". Virginia needs taxes to run, I understand that. But I can't abide being taxed for nebulous reasons, especially since it makes a hobby that I love more expensive, when everything in Virginia is becoming more expensive.

Both HB919 and HB1094 are designed to deter CITIZENS from exercising an enumerated right as stated in the Virginia and US constitutions. Our elected representatives have taken an oath to support and defend these constitutions. No constitutional right should be subjected to taxation under any circumstance. Not only is this an abomination, it's a slippery slope. What's next, taxing the practice (or not practicing) of a religion? What about taxing abortions? Virginia will not always be ruled by one party, and the other side will likely retaliate. Importantly, it's time for our elected officials to recognize and respect the citizenry. All citizens are to be governed fairly. Their interests matter more than those of any political party. What is unfortunate is that our elected representatives are owned by their party bosses and contributors. They make no efforts to debate and seek reasonable compromises. None have the guts to even try.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

HB 207 What people see in the movies seldom translates to reality. Suppressors serve a legitimate purpose in firing range practice and hunting to reduce sound to a manageable level. They don't silence as shown in films. Simply owning a suppressor doesn’t cause a person to commit a crime. Like other inanimate objects, they can't act on their own and form criminal intent. Indeed, the last use of one in a crime was in 2019. They are already federally regulated and until recently had been heavily taxed. The amount of this tax comes to 160% in many cases. It is simply a cash grab and does not solve any real problem nor impact criminal behavior. OPPOSE HB 919 / 1094 Taxing firearms and ammunition to set up an unnecessary bureaucracy with a dubious mission and no measures of performance is a waste of money - our tax money. It taxes a basic civil right guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution. It sets a precedent for taxing other basic rights including free speech and religion. I also object to the term "gun violence" being used in written law as it is clearly partisan language aimed at political opponents.

I strongly opposed both bills that arbitrarily single out firearms and ammunition for an excise tax. These bills are contrary to your "affordability" platform and seek to deprive citizens of their right to self defense items.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. These efforts only harm law abiding gun owners and will have no appreciable benefits to the Commonwealth.

HB 919 & HB 1094 create a new 11 percent excise tax on the retail sale of firearms and ammunition, imposing a targeted and punitive burden on a single lawful industry while exempting government purchasers from the same costs. Framed as a revenue measure, this bill functions as a discriminatory tax that will harm small businesses, reduce lawful commerce, and drive economic activity out of the Commonwealth. The bills would significantly increase the cost of firearms and ammunition for consumers by stacking a new excise tax on top of existing sales and use taxes. This cost increase will fall hardest on working class Virginians, rural residents, and small independent retailers who operate on thin margins. Many small firearms dealers and ammunition vendors rely on volume sales to remain viable, and an additional 11 percent tax will price customers out of the market or push them to purchase from out of state competitors. HB 919 & HB 1094 also create a strong incentive for cross border commerce and tax avoidance. Neighboring states do not impose comparable excise taxes on firearms and ammunition, making it economically rational for consumers to shop elsewhere. This will reduce in state sales, lower overall tax collections from existing revenue streams, and weaken local businesses without delivering the projected fiscal benefits promised by the bills. These bills also place Virginia based manufacturers and retailers at a competitive disadvantage. Firearms manufacturers that engage in retail sales within the Commonwealth will face higher operating costs than out of state sellers who can ship products to Virginia consumers through alternative channels. This undermines economic development efforts and discourages manufacturers from expanding or maintaining operations in Virginia. HB 919 & HB 1094 further raises concerns about the stability and predictability of the tax base. Firearm and ammunition sales fluctuate significantly based on market conditions, supply chain disruptions, and consumer behavior. Relying on a volatile and shrinking tax base to fund ongoing government programs creates long term budgetary risk rather than sustainable revenue. Finally, the bills earmark all proceeds for a specific program while ignoring the broader economic harm caused to lawful businesses and employees. Selectively taxing a single industry to fund unrelated policy goals sets a dangerous precedent and opens the door to future industry specific taxes whenever political priorities shift. HB 919 & HB 1094 do not represent sound tax policy. It harms Virginia businesses, reduces consumer spending in state, destabilizes existing revenue streams, and drives economic activity elsewhere. For these reasons, these bills should be rejected.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. Virginia doesn't want these gun control bills, it's making national news even.

I STRONGLY OPPOSE ALL THREE OF THESE DEMOCRAT PARTY INSTIGATED ATTACKS ON CITIZEN'S SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS!!! The imposition of an 11% excess tax on firearms and ammunition (HB 919 and HB 1094) and a $500 tax on suppressors (HB207) are the equivalent of imposing a POLL TAX on the exercise of our constitution right to vote. They are simply another attempt to disarm the citizens of the Commonwealth, particularly members of our poorer communities, by levying punitive economic costs. SIC SEMPER TYRANNIS!

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I am STRONGLY OPPOSED to HB1094 and HB919 as they apply a tax to a constitutional right. This is equivalent to a poll tax. I must remind the ones who approve of this bill that this will also impact the poor and minorities the most causing inequality as to who is able to use their constitutional rights.

I strongly oppose the passing of these legislations. Not only are they unconstitutional. They have no merit in public safety in regards to deterring or preventing crime. These types of legislations have been challenged and defeated in court. HB1094 & HB 919: Taxation without Representation or justification. This raises ammunition and firearms prices to manufacturers and law abiding citizens tgat have no intention of committing crimes and that are using firearms for self- defense, hunting, target shooting, range practice, sporting clays and home defense. 2005, Congress passed the bipartisan Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) to prevent and curb never-ending series of lawsuits against manufacturers and retailers of firearms to hold them financially responsible for crimes committed using the weapons manufactured or sold by those entities. These taxes are a blatant attempt to circumvent federal law. HB207: Taxation without Representation or Justofication. The Federal Suppressor Tax: Overturned by the Bureau of Alcohol and Tobacco and deemed UnConstitutional. Suppressors are not firearms. They are not creating, inciting or doing crimes. They suppress noise, reduce harmful noise decibels and combined with hearing protection prevent hearing loss, increased medical costs on the users and spectators. They reduce noise pollution. They are less likely to spook livestock or pets when used for predator control, hunting and recreational shooting. They reduce noise at indoor and outdoor shooting ranges. They are not a gun. They are not dangerous or otherwise environmentally damaging. They are no different than a scope or a pair of ear muffs. The only difference is where they are attached to a firearm and that they are not worn by a person. The sales of hearing aides will go down and permanent hearing loss will be reduced by using suppressors and ear muff or ear plugs. That is a win for Medicare, Medicaid, the user, spectators, healthcare costs, health insurance providers and more. PUBLIC SAFETY is provided by using suppressors. Again, these legislations are just a means to increase taxes, they do not prevent or deter crimes and only serve to push a party narrative. They are purely a party push and serve only to prevent men and women from lowering their healthcare costs, reducing noise pollution, reducing health insurance claims, or reducing affordability. I hope the GOA, NRA, VCDL, Gun and Ammo manufacturers, Health insurance companies and combine forces and take you to court and win if these legislations are passed.

I strongly urge this committee to reject HB919 and HB1094. These bills create an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth that will be passed on to the citizen. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Because ammunition can be purchased across state lines, I would expect patrons will go to neighboring states or buy online. This will hurt revenue for Virginia and the businesses that operate in the Commonwealth.

HB207 - There should be no tax on suppressors, you are just making it more expensive for people to be able to shoot their firearms at a lower and safer decibel rating. Even if you use hearing protection, suppressors make shooting guns safer by further reducing the decibel count. And the amount of this tax is ridiculous , $500? This bill is really just trying to make suppressors, which are already expensive on their own, out of reach for people. And aren’t we all already tired of getting hit by more taxes? HB919 - There shouldn’t be an additional tax on firearms and ammunition, these are tools that we use to defend ourselves. Also a 11% tax is a ridiculous amount. Isn’t everyone already getting pinched in today’s economy? HB1094 - There shouldn’t be an additional tax on firearms and ammunition, these are tools that we use to defend ourselves. Also a 11% tax is a ridiculous amount. Isn’t everyone already getting pinched in today’s economy?

I urge you not to support HB207 ,HB919, and HB1094. Suppressors are beneficial for hunter's ear protection and for reducing noise from target practice in neighborhoods. Charging this excessive tax in HB207 is wrong and affects a basic civil right, plus it discriminates against the poor. Also, guns save lives! The excise tax in HB919 and HB1094 are an affront to law abiding citizens exercising their second amendment civil rights.

I am against these three bills as they are designed to punish fire arm owners. Owning fire arms is a constitutional right according to the second amendment, this is an underhanded way of curtailing our second amendment rights. What part of shall not be infringed do you not understand?

Please do not place additional tax on these items. It’s bad visibility to increase the financial burden for lower income citizens of the commonwealth to enjoy their lawful freedoms.

OPPOSE HB207, HB919, and HB1094. This bill is DISCRIMINATORY and makes hearing risk reduction unaffordable for mostly minority gun owners. This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing?

I am OPPOSED to HB919 and HB1094. Excessive taxation of a constitutionally protected right on top of already being a heavily taxed firearms market is unethical and immoral.

Please oppose this bill. Additional taxes on guns and ammo amounts to a sin tax… It will not help to stop gun crime. The only thing that will be accomplished is to put money in the government for leftist social engineering projects that I do not support. Where the heck is the AFFORDIBILITY that Gov. Spanberger campaigned on?

As a hunter, I am already paying a 13% excise tax for guns and ammunition through the Pittman-Robertson (PR) act. That tax produces a significant amount of the country's conservation funding and effectively doubles the states conservation allocated funding. Placing an additional tax on firearms and ammo will effectively lower our conservation funding from the PR act since people will not be able to afford the increased prices. Virginia citizens should not be subject to an additional tax and our DWR should not have to work with reduced conservation funding. As a hunter, I use a suppressor on my rifle which lowers the impact on my hearing. Research has shown the sounds from a rifle, even with hearing protection, are enough to cause damage. Since every citizen has the right to keep and bear arms, they should train frequently by shooting the firearm to remain proficient, and in the case of hunters, make an ethical shot. The recent tax removal on suppressors nationally was a step in the right direction for sportsman. Virginia would be taking a step backwards by making this safety device more difficult to purchase. Criminals looking to create a quieter shooting device will simply purchase an illegal fuel cannister and utilize it as a suppressor. This bill only hurts law abiding citizens.

The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing?

This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing? This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I seriously hope you oppose these bills as they are only going to accomplish a lengthy costly court issue and would provide no tangible results based on objective accurate history! Stop punishing the law abiders and I for 1 will remember during next election!

These bills are very reminiscent of Jim Crow Laws and will disproportionately infringe on the rights of lower income demographics. Creating a sin tax for our constitutional rights is a clear violation of your constituents civil rights. Expanding the red flag laws creates a huge potential for abuse and misuse for personal reasons. I have been in law enforcement for over a decade and I cannot think of one instance where the current red flag laws were used. I urge you to vote no on all matters regarding gun control and taxation. These laws do nothing to stop criminals from hurting people. They only place unlawful restrictions on responsible law abiding citizens. Passing and enforcing these laws is also blatantly in violation of US code section 242 of Title 18 Violation of constitutional rights under color of law.

“As the next governor of Virginia, my overarching, unrelenting focus in 2026 will be making the commonwealth more affordable for our fellow Virginians,” -Spanberger. Creating or raising taxes in Virginia would be seen as a direct contradiction to Governor Abigail Spanberger’s 2026 "unrelenting focus" on affordability.

These bills will increase the cost of firearm + firearm accessory ownership in a country where people are already finding it hard to afford other basic necessities. People have it hard enough as is. Adding an extra $500 on the cost of suppressors and extra taxes on firearms and ammunition will make the 2nd amendment a privilege instead of a right. We do not charge women so they have a “privilege” to vote nor do we charge our fellow Americans for the “privilege” of not being a slave. This is because constitutionally we have the right to not be enslaved, have women vote, speak freely and practice our religions, and also to bear arms without any infringements. Adding what is essentially a sin tax to suppressors, firearms, and ammunition is unnecessary and unacceptable. I don’t support HB 1094 and HB 919

I oppose HB919 & HB1094 and I urge you to do the same. I fully support comments made by the Virginia Citizens Defense League and the NRA. This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. What other punitive taxes will be created? We are already taxed on these items as well as everything else we buy, along with utility taxes, fuel tax, personal property taxes, real estate taxes, and of course income tax. You pay to earn it and pay to spend it, even on necessities. Enough with all of the taxes and fees already!

I do not support HB207, HB919, and HB 1094 and want you to vote against them. These bills seem like bills of attainder against Virgina gun owners. The economic impact will hurt the poorest of citizens disproportionately and represents a sin tax against civil rights. Additionally, The cost of litigation to defend these laws will cost the Commonwealth millions of dollars. These types of bills may be good candidates for AAG Dhillon of the DOJ Civil Rights Division to pursue. Please do not vote for these bad bills.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I am opposed to ANY law that limits my ability to carry, use, purchase, or own firearms. This includes the right to carry in public places or my vehicle, and it includes the right to defend myself. I am totally and completely opposed to ANY leftist agenda, and I am informing you, whoever you are, that there is a lot of anger out here over what's going on in our state, and indeed, in our nation and our world. It's become apparent that, far from what we voted for, Pres. Trump will continue to knuckle under to the left. Therefore, we shall have to fight for our rights in our state. Be warned: not everyone will knuckle under! There are some of us patriots left!

The recent passage of HB217 and related gun control measures in the Virginia House, including bans on so-called "assault firearms" and large-capacity magazines, represents a direct assault on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Virginians. These laws, which criminalize the sale, manufacture, and transfer of commonly owned firearms, ignore the Constitution's clear protections and the Founding Fathers' intent. The Second Amendment states: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." James Madison, the amendment's primary drafter, emphasized in Federalist No. 46 that an armed citizenry serves as a bulwark against tyranny, arguing that the federal government would be restrained by "the advantage of being armed which the Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation." Similarly, Thomas Jefferson wrote in a 1787 letter to William Stephens Smith that "what country can preserve its liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms." The Founders viewed the right to bear arms as essential for self-defense, hunting, and resisting oppression—not limited to outdated muskets, but evolving with technology. Supreme Court precedents affirm this. In District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), the Court held that the Second Amendment protects an individual's right to possess firearms for lawful purposes, including self-defense, and struck down D.C.'s handgun ban. Justice Scalia noted that it safeguards "arms in common use at the time," which today includes semi-automatic rifles like those targeted by HB217. McDonald v. Chicago (2010) extended this to the states via the Fourteenth Amendment. Most recently, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022) invalidated restrictive carry laws, requiring gun regulations to align with historical traditions—something Virginia's broad bans fail to do, as they prohibit weapons millions of Americans own without incident. These measures won't reduce crime—criminals ignore laws—but they disarm the innocent. Virginia's Founders, like Patrick Henry, warned against disarming the people: "Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect everyone who approaches that jewel." Lawmakers should repeal these unconstitutional infringements and uphold our heritage of freedom.

The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing?

You have all betrayed your constituents with all of these new laws stripping our constitutional rights. Trying to make it so hard to own, carry, and purchase guns and ammunition that people just give up or cant afford it. Expansion of the Red Flag laws to people who are in no way qualified to make that decision to strip someone of their constitution rights. Giving that option especially to Spouses like no one would ever use that to satisfy a grudge against an ex. Also creating a system that punishes people for seeking help with medical counselors or lose their constitutional rights. The tax on ammunition alone is an obvious attempt to make it even harder for people to afford to practice with their firearms which is required for proficiency and price people out of purchasing them to begin with. The tax on suppressor when the fed stamp has been removed is just more obvious money grabbing and trying to make it restricted by putting a "poll tax" on it just like ammunition. Trying to outlaw the sale of commononly used firearms like AKs and ARs even though the Supreme Court has already ruled that the second amendment protects guns in common use. This is the first time ever I have been absolutely ashamed to be a Virginian in my entire life. You have all sold out the people and every one of you should lose your seat if you vote for these bills. Why do you need all these new taxes when you were handed a several billion dollar surplus at the end of last year? Answer is its not about the money, its about taking away guns. Try staying out of our wallets, homes, and lives for a change. How about fulfilling the promise of affordability that was made? How about reducing taxes instead of creating new ones? How about protecting the freedom of Virginians instead of trying to control us so you can use us like little cash shelters. Disgusting behavior and you should all be ashamed.

I oppose this bill because the proposed $500 tax on suppressors is excessive, punitive, and disconnected from reality. Suppressors are not tools of crime, they don’t make guns silent, they simply reduce noise to safer levels, similar to the difference between a jet engine and a jackhammer. They help protect hearing, reduce noise complaints, and make lawful target shooting more neighbor-friendly. The fact that the last known criminal misuse of a legally owned suppressor in Virginia was years ago, and in a gun-free zone, underscores how misplaced this tax is. For suppressors that cost around $300, a $500 tax amounts to a 160% surcharge, effectively pricing lower-income shooters and hunters out of a basic safety tool. This bill doesn’t improve public safety; it just penalizes responsible, law-abiding people for taking reasonable steps to reduce noise and protect their hearing.

I STRONGLY OPPOSE this bill

bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I am a Virginia resident, a home-based Federal Firearms Licensee, and a responsible gun owner. I strongly oppose HB919 and HB1094. These bills impose an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition sold into the Commonwealth. This type of tax functions as a “sin tax” on the exercise of a constitutional right, disproportionately affecting lower- and middle-income Virginians while placing small, independent dealers at a competitive disadvantage. Firearms ownership is lawful and responsible for the vast majority of citizens. Taxing firearms and ammunition to discourage access sets a dangerous precedent. We do not levy special excise taxes on books, newspapers, or internet access to fund First Amendment initiatives, nor should we tax the Second Amendment out of reach for ordinary citizens. From a business perspective, this tax will reduce sales, push customers to out-of-state or online markets, and harm small Virginia FFLs that already operate on thin margins. The long-term economic impact on lawful commerce and jobs should not be ignored. I respectfully ask the committee to reject these bills and pursue public-safety solutions that do not rely on selectively taxing a civil right or undermining small local businesses.

VOTE NO on HB207: This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing? VOTE NO on HB919 & HB1094: These bills creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing?

I am opposed to HB207. This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing? I am also opposed to HB919 and HB1094. These bills create an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I oppose the firearms and ammo tax increase bills HB919 HB 1094. This will be a heavy burden on gun owners across the commonwealth, (Law Enforcement included) who need firearm practice and proficiency. I oppose HB 207.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

I oppose these HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. HB207: I oppose because I think reducing ambient noise is a public and environmental good. We should be encouraging people to use suppressors while they responsibly enjoy the use of their firearms. I hike and camping year round and it would be more pleasant for everyone if hunters used suppressed rifles. Hiking near trap and skeet and shooting ranges would also be nicer. Additionally, people who are at shooting ranges would benefit from reduced hearing risk. I suspect if suppressors were widely used, ranges would be safer as verbal communication would be improved. I do not think that suppressors will result in a new wave of crime. They are still NFA items and they have been affordable to responsible law abiding citizens for some time, suppressors make gunss much larger, generally less reliable, and harder to conceal. They also, as far as I know, reduce the sound to the level depicted in movies and people will still know that there are guns being used at a distance. We should be encouraging their use to increase hearing safety just like we are encouraging the disuse of obnoxious leaf blowers. HB 919 & HB 1094 (11% Excise Taxes): While the mission of the Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund is noble, these taxes punishment on responsible people to pay for the acts of irresponsible people. In general we do not have social corollary to this (we don't charge charge parents special taxes even though some of children do eventually go on to become problems to society). I would rather this initiative be funded through through broader means. Especially because reducing sales through taxes will just force criminals to achieve their violence through other means while reducing peoples ability to enjoy their freedoms and defend themselves.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094

My Wife and I strongly oppose HB207 HB919 and HB1094.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094

My name is Jonathan Gatell, and I am a resident of West Springfield and a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. I am writing to respectfully urge you to oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094 currently under consideration in the House Finance Committee. As a lawful gun owner, I am deeply concerned that these bills represent an unconstitutional and regressive approach to public safety. Rather than addressing the root causes of violence, these measures create significant financial barriers that disenfranchise low-income Virginians and vulnerable communities. My specific concerns regarding this legislative package include: • HB 207 ($500 Suppressor Tax): This is a punitive tax on essential safety equipment. Contrary to popular media portrayals, suppressors are hearing-protection devices that reduce the report of a firearm to safer levels; they do not "silence" it. Imposing a $500 tax makes shooting sports and self-defense training more dangerous for those without significant disposable income. • HB 919 & HB 1094 (11% Excise Taxes): While the mission of the Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund is noble, funding it through a flat 11% excise tax is fundamentally regressive. Much like the "poll taxes" of the past, these costs disproportionately impact lower-income and minority citizens. These are the very groups who are historically the most frequent targets of hate crimes and who may rely on affordable means of self-defense. By imposing these "sin taxes" on a constitutionally protected right, the Commonwealth risks alienating moderate and progressive gun owners who support responsible safety measures but oppose economic discrimination. Rights should not be luxuries reserved only for the wealthy. I appreciate your dedication to mitigating gun violence, but I ask that you seek solutions that do not involve regressive taxation or the financial disenfranchisement of your constituents.

I am a resident of Arlington and a dedicated Democrat. My commitment to the party is deep; I have worked on campaigns for Gerry Connolly and Terry McAuliffe, and even traveled to canvas for Raphael Warnock during his special election. I am writing to you today because I am deeply invested in our party’s success and its commitment to progressive values. However, I am writing to strongly urge you to oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094. As a lawful gun owner, I believe these bills are not only electorally risky but also fundamentally regressive. At a time when we are fighting to protect vulnerable populations, these measures would disproportionately disenfranchise the very people who need protection most. My specific concerns include: HB207 ($500 Suppressor Tax): This is a punitive tax on safety equipment. Suppressors are vital tools for hearing protection at the range. Pricing them out of reach for average citizens does not improve public safety; it simply makes shooting sports more dangerous for those without significant disposable income. HB919 & HB1094 (11% Firearm and Ammunition Taxes): While I support the mission of the Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund, funding it through a flat 11% excise tax is a regressive move. Similar to "poll taxes" of the past, these costs overwhelmingly impact lower-income and minority communities—groups that are historically the most frequent targets of hate crimes and political targeting. By validating the "anti-gun" labels often used by the opposition, these bills risk alienating moderate and progressive gun owners alike. More importantly, they create a financial barrier to a constitutional right that will primarily affect those in the most vulnerable economic tiers. I appreciate the focus on mitigating gun violence, but I ask that you seek solutions that do not involve regressive taxation or the disenfranchisement of your own constituents. Sincerely, Samuel Reid Lipton Arlington, VA

I oppose these HB207, HB919, HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB909, HB1094. These bills unnecessarily increase costs for law abiding firearm owners and create a situation where only the wealthy can afford to exercise their rights.

I oppose these bills because it punishes lawful gun owners by making them pay more to practice responsible gun ownership. Being a responsible gun owner requires commitment and training and that means using a considerable amount of ammo at the range. 90% of firearms used in crime are either bought illegally or stolen - so taxes would not apply and they would not help curb crime or violence in any way. Again, this is a bill that punishes responsible gun owners. We all want to same thing - to end gun violence in Virginia. These bills will not do that.

I oppose HB919 and HB1094. These bills impose a regressive 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition on top of Virginia’s existing sales tax. This proposal primarily taxes lawful, regulated retail purchases, not the people committing gun violence. It is fundamentally unfair to make responsible Virginians pay a special surcharge for crimes they did not commit. If the goal is to fund violence-prevention efforts, the funding mechanism should target violent offenders, not lawful commerce. Instead, the General Assembly should consider approaches that require those convicted of gun crimes to contribute (e.g., restitution or work programs), rather than pricing out lawful citizens who are trying to train and remain proficient and safe. The bill is also likely to be counterproductive for revenue. Tripling the effective tax burden on these products increases incentives to buy out of state, delay purchases, or avoid the market entirely. This means Virginia could plausibly collect less revenue, not more, while harming in-state small businesses. Even the Department of Taxation describes its revenue estimate as speculative and the actual revenue impact as uncertain. These bills also expand government bureaucracy and impose new compliance burdens on Virginia businesses. The fiscal impact statement for HB1094 indicates additional administrative costs, including the need for dedicated personnel to administer the new tax. That is more overhead and paperwork for both the Commonwealth and lawful dealers and vendors, on top of an already uncertain revenue stream. Supporters cite Everytown’s data that “gun violence costs Virginia $14.2B each year, of which $288.3M is paid by taxpayers.” However, that figure is not representative of the Virginia General Fund burden. It is a modeled estimate that bundles combined federal, state, and local government spending and includes federal programs and long-term assumption-based items, so it should not be presented as what Virginia taxpayers or the Virginia General Fund actually pay. Virginia’s JLARC analysis, based on Virginia claims data, suggests a much smaller direct public medical cost burden. JLARC found about $28.5M in paid claims for initial treatment over 2021–2023, with Medicaid paying about 80% of that, and noted those Medicaid costs were less than 0.05% of total Medicaid claim expenditures. That implies that 0.05% of annual Medicaid claim spending is on the order of about $8M per year. Even if you still accept the $288.3M figure, it is unfairly being used to justify punishing lawful buyers. Virginia’s overall spending is on the order of tens of billions per year (e.g., $87.5B total spending reported for FY2025), making $288.3M roughly about 0.3% of annual spending. That does not justify creating a new, targeted sin-tax on constitutionally protected, highly regulated purchases by law-abiding residents. Virginia should reject HB919 and HB1094 and focus on targeted enforcement against violent offenders and evidence-based interventions, without taxing responsible citizens and undermining lawful training and safety.

I support this bill because gun violence costs Virginia $14.2 billion each year, of which $288.3 million is paid by taxpayers.

The slew of new "taxes" as well as the attack on firearm's enthusiasts and the 2nd amendment will solidify my moving out of state once passed. It's become very clear that we are fundamentally opposed to each others views and ways of life. However, rather than adopt a live and let live approach like myself, you seek to undermine and impose your views on me. How dare you, how dare you single out citizens and residents of this great commonwealth and demand they pay additional "taxes" on things like firearms and ammunition when they already pay the state sales tax. What's troubling is you will lie and state a myriad of reasons why these additional taxes exist, but the reality is you're just trying to inconvenience and restrict gun owners. You just don't have the integrity to come out and say it. Good riddance.

I am 41 years old and despite never being in the military, being exposed to excessively loud noises throughout my life, and having no genetic preconditions for hearing loss, I have tinnitus. It started to creep up within the first year I began training with a pistol for the purpose of self-defense after being jumped and attacked no less than 5 times in the 2 years prior to buying that pistol. When I went to the range, I wore ear plugs AND ear muffs (the latter costing nearly $300 in an attempt to get the best of the best) and STILL I realized quickly that, despite being in a quiet room, I was hearing loud ringing. This combination is capable of reducing the concussive noise of a gunshot only minimally. My doctor says there's really no possible other source other than my exposure to firearms. My exposure that was only a tiny fraction of what soldiers are subjected to, what shooting sports enthusiasts are subjected to, and so forth. Had I been able to afford a suppressor and $200 NFA tax at the time, I would have been able to reduce the decibel output of my pistol by up to 35 dB. Combine that with my hearing protection, and I would have NEVER come to have tinnitus from shooting sports AND everyone else in the range with me would have been subjected to far less noise as well. A suppressor should be easily accessible, taxed only at the prevailing consumer goods sales tax, and require no government approval so that there are no barriers to protecting the hearing of a shooter and those around them while exercising one's 2nd amendment rights. It seems as if a $500 tax on suppressors is a retaliatory action not grounded in any kind of premise of safety or health. It would limit once again access to what is fundamentally a hearing protection device to wealthy VA residents. Is this the message Democrats want to send: "We want guns to be as loud as possible and if you are keen to be respectful to your own hearing and others, we will force you to pay $500!" That doesn't land well with anyone. It fundamentally makes no sense, especially since in Europe, South Africa, and other parts of the world you can simply walk into a store, buy a suppressor (you're encouraged to do so), and walk out in as much time as it takes to drink a cup of coffee. This tax obviously solves nothing, will not raise revenue fairly and justly, and will likely cost VA more to defend than it rakes in as suppressors are already commonly $1,000 or more. Anti-2A laws do not reduce crime in the same way anti-reproductive rights laws do not reduce abortions... in both instances the result is worse. Stop infringing on Constitutional rights and start focusing on what matters.

Opposition to HOUSE BILL NO. 919 Retail Firearm and Ammunition Tax (11%) HB 919 expands a constitutional defect by directly taxing retail purchasers, effectively penalizing individual Virginians for exercising their rights. A. Direct Consumer Taxation Is More Constitutionally Suspect This bill taxes the point of exercise of the Second Amendment itself. Under Heller, firearms and ammunition are not accessories—they are essential. A right that cannot be practically exercised is no right at all. Courts have repeatedly recognized that: Ammunition is protected under the Second Amendment (see Jackson v. City and County of San Francisco, 746 F.3d 953 (9th Cir. 2014)) Excessive costs imposed by law can amount to a de facto ban An 11% tax—on top of existing federal excise taxes and state sales taxes—substantially increases the cost of lawful ownership. B. Selective Exemptions Undermine the State’s Rationale The exemption for law-enforcement officers and low-volume sellers reveals that the tax is not genuinely about violence prevention, but about discouraging civilian ownership. Under equal-protection principles and Bruen, selective exemptions weaken any claim of historical consistency. Pro-Second Amendment groups have emphasized that civilian gun ownership has declined in many high-tax jurisdictions without corresponding reductions in violent crime, including cities like Chicago and Los Angeles, undermining the public-safety justification. C. Revenue Earmarking Does Not Cure Constitutional Violations Directing funds to a “Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund” does not legitimize an unconstitutional tax. The Supreme Court has never allowed the government to violate a right so long as the proceeds are used for a well-intentioned purpose. The Virginia General Assembly should reject HB 919 in defense of: 1) Constitutional fidelity 2) Equal treatment of fundamental rights 3) Evidence-based public policy Firearm policy disagreements cannot override constitutional guarantees. Rights do not become privileges simply because they are politically disfavored. Adoption of HOUSE BILL NO. 919 opens the Commonwealth of Virginia to legal action that would inflict an undue and unecessary burden on the citizens of the Commonwealth.

These bills are as anti-gun and anti-2nd amendment at their core. Many bills related to firearms this legislative session at least use the cover of safety to cover their anti-gun intention, these bills HB 207, SB 763, HB 919 and HB 1094 do no such thing. They just financially punish law abiding Virginians for using firearms to hunt, target shoot and protect their families. The result of these bills is that law-abiding Virginians will simple go to another state to make a firearm related purchase, and no one will come to Virginia to make a purchaser. The result, at a minimum, will be: 1. reducing state and local sales tax revenue 2. impacting small independent firearm business by reducing their revenue with the potential for staff reductions or closure I do not support this bill nor do the 200+ active members, 2000+ inactive members of Northern Virginia's largest hunting association - The National Sportsman Association.

As a Virginia resident and voter, I am writing to let you know that I strongly oppose HB207 and HB 919. The ATF has already removed the $200 tax stamp at the Federal level so why do ya'll think you can impose a $500 tax on something that is helpful to shooters and hunters. The felons and law breakers do use suppressors in their acts of crime so why are you punishing the lawful people of VA. Ya'll are suppose to be helping Virginians not suppressing them! As far as the addition taxes ya'll want to impose on gun owners that is despicable!!!! What are you going to do with the extra money gained from this? Ya'll have yet to tell us what is the plan for the excess funds VA will be raking in about the 2.1B surplus we have every year and this will make VA the highest taxed state in the US. Don't ya'lll see what is happening in CA and NY where business and people are leaving because of the excess taxes being imposed?

As the Assistant Manager, Mid-Atlantic States for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), I respectfully urge you to oppose House Bill 919 (HB 919) – discriminatory legislation that would establish an 11% excise tax rate for firearms and ammunition manufacturers, intended to provide funding for the “Virginia Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund” which will likely result in the financial burden falling upon law abiding sportsmen and women. Virginia’s sportsmen and women are already the backbone of the funding structure for conservation efforts that benefit wildlife and their habitat throughout the Commonwealth, as well as the citizenry at large. The passage of financially discriminatory legislation like HB 919, will likely result in an unintended and consequential diminishment of the state’s conservation funding.

Abjectly opposed to ANY new taxes for ANY reason. We have an overabundance of money in this state as it is and are taxed enough.

Strongly Oppose HB919. Stop the grift. Tax, tax, tax! GET OUT OF MY POCKET!

I strongly oppose this bill.

HB 1135, HB 1351, HB 188, HB 243, HB 334, HB 341, HB 378, hb 550, HB 557, HB 563, HB 720, HB 784, HB 897, HB 919, HB 946, HB 959, HB 961, HB 978, SB 400, SB 763. I oppose all of these bills.

Chair Hernandez, The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce supports the following bills: HB1135 HB1133 HB946 HB504 The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce opposes the following bill: - HB897 Thank you for your time. Kind Regards, Theo Stamatis Government Relations Manager Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce 703.314.3519 tstamatis@loudounchamber.org

I live in Southwestern Virginia and I stand firmly against all these Bills the Democrats are trying to pass, especially my 2nd Amendment rights. I am a law abiding citizen with a concealed weapons permit. I use to work for the Department Of Corrections. I have had a lot of firearms training. I am safe and respect others. These gun laws that are trying to be passed is tyrannical gun laws. I was given this right by my Forefathers, "The right to bear arms Shall Not Be INFRINGED"! It's the law of the land. Democrats are about going against our rights. I will never ever vote for one single Democrat until they go back to the Party of the 1980's and before. Now they are against American Patriots and values. I oppose all gun laws. I oppose all the taxes as well that the Democrats get rich from us poor people. Please reconsider taking people's rights because that will have big consequences at Election time. Sandford Fields

Vote NO on bills 207, 919, and 1094. Further, do not allow bill 954 to pass. Thank you K. P. Chess

Virginia was in good shape, we had a surplus of money that Gov Youngkin gave back to the taxpayers. And NOW you want to raise taxes on everything. There are alot of us on a fixed income and can't afford the taxes. These taxes are no necessary unless it is putting money into your pockets. This needs to stop or we will vote you out, after we do a recall. You are not doing what is best for the taxpayers in Virginia. You are doing this for you and how much money it will put in your pockets. STOP THE RAISING OF ANY TAXES ON VIRGINIANS.

These proposed bills are a blatant attack on our 2nd amendment rights and personal liberties. They will do nothing to stop crime but as usual, restrict the law abiding responsible gun owners. Why don't you stop making it easier for criminals to walk our streets and at the same time try to restrict our ability to defend our families and ourselves??? You are allowed to be protected by armed security but what you're saying in these proposals is that we don't have the same right.

I oppose All of the above Gun Bills. I am not a criminal nor have I ever been one. Our Government can Not protect me my property, or my Family. I have a God given right to bear and own guns Also 2A rights. You work for ME ! You are supposed to represent ME ! Stop with All the Over reach . Let me tell you what you should be doing , You should be passing bills to benefit the American people like Health care, economy, Get rid of these taxes that benefit your needs !! Finish deporting these illegal immigrants you brought into this country !! Again No on Gun bills .

The 2nd amendment does not in any way shape or form all these changes constitutional. Every bill you are pushing through house is definition of infringement. Also the first amendment grants all US citizens the freedom of speech . As a Christian I am subject to hate speech from others and have no avenue of protection other than my 2 nd amendment rights !

I oppose ALL of the above gun bills. I am not a criminal never have been . Our Goverment can not protect me , my family or my property I have a God given right to bear arms also 2A rights .You work for ME !! You are suppose to represent ME ! Stop the over reach . Do something that benefits the American citizens , Healthcare, economy, get rid of All these taxes you have burdened the people with , Finish deporting illegal immigrates .

As a retired federal officer (Not ICE), I am concerned about a few things; the proposed magazine and firearms ban, leaving Virginia citizens unprotected against criminals who will not follow the laws, and the retired Federal, State and Local officers who DO NOT have the ability to purchase their duty firearm and 15 round magazines. As retired officers, most of us are still quietly acting as Sheepdogs, still watching over our neighbors and strangers. Not exempting retired officers from the magazine ban can be catastrophic, whether you realize it or not. While some state and local officers have the ability to purchase their duty firearm and 15 round mags, some municipalities and all Federal officers do NOT have this luxury, and it will create a disparity among those who can purchase and keep their 15 round magazines and those who cannot by either law or policy. The US Constitution does not regulate what firearms Americans can keep, with some exceptions; but it DOES permit US Citizens to keep & bear arms. Historically kept firearms have been recognized by the high courts as not illegal and have ruled in favor of this. Like many, I feel that this "gun grab" as it's called was rushed through too quickly without considering the retirees who have served this state with honor and dignity. I urge you to not just ban 15 round mags for our citizens, but especially for the retirees. The way the language is currently written, the 15 round ban will not affect officers who have the ability to purchase their duty firearms upon retirement, but would not apply to many others including all federal officers & agents. Not a good way to keep your voters; and could be considered biased by the high courts. We are all the same; we served and protected. Thank you.

I oppose all of these bills as they are against to 2nd Amendment. More importantly, do you really believe that criminals will follow these laws? No. They will continue to commit crimes and if necessary go out of state to acquire what they need. Law abiding patriots, when armed are the best deterrent to crime! I also assume that you folks will not have personal protection details and if you do they will not be allowed to carry the type of firearms you are trying to outlaw!

❌ Oppose HB 207 (Keys-Gamarra) HB 207 imposes additional firearm restrictions that burden lawful gun owners while doing nothing to address violent crime. Laws that target possession rather than criminal misuse undermine constitutional protections and divert attention from enforcing existing laws against violent offenders. ❌ Oppose HB 566 (McNamara) HB 566 expands government control over lawful firearm ownership without historical justification or evidence of effectiveness. The Second Amendment protects the right of ordinary citizens to keep and bear arms, and broad regulatory schemes like this fail constitutional scrutiny under the Supreme Court’s Bruen framework. ❌ Oppose HB 919 (Lopez) HB 919 penalizes lawful firearm possession and commerce rather than criminal behavior. Public safety is not enhanced by placing additional legal and financial barriers on responsible citizens, and this bill risks chilling the exercise of a fundamental constitutional right. ❌ Oppose HB 954 (Watts) HB 954 advances sweeping firearm restrictions that are unsupported by historical precedent. Under the Constitution, rights cannot be limited simply because lawmakers believe regulation is preferable—restrictions must be narrowly tailored and historically grounded, which this bill is not. ❌ Oppose HB 1008 (Tran) HB 1008 infringes on the rights of law-abiding Virginians by expanding firearm prohibitions beyond constitutional limits. Collective punishment and preemptive restrictions violate due process and ignore the Supreme Court’s clear instruction that firearm regulations must align with historical tradition. ❌ Oppose HB 1094 (Laufer) HB 1094 imposes excessive regulatory burdens that disproportionately impact responsible gun owners while failing to deter criminal violence. The Constitution does not allow rights to be conditioned on convenience, compliance costs, or bureaucratic discretion. ❌ Oppose HB 1362 (McNamara) HB 1362 further erodes the Second Amendment by restricting access to commonly owned firearms and lawful activities. Policies that treat constitutional rights as privileges undermine public trust and expose the Commonwealth to costly and unnecessary litigation. ❌ Oppose HB 1474 (O’Quinn) HB 1474 expands government authority over private firearm ownership in ways that conflict with constitutional protections and established legal precedent. Virginia should focus on punishing criminal misuse of firearms—not restricting the rights of citizens who obey the law.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094!!!

To All Involved, We the People DO NOT want all of the tyrannically oppressive bills you are considering to be passed. Especially the ones related to OUR second amendment rights. No where in the constitution is a state given the authority to restrict any of OUR rights and freedoms guaranteed under the constitution. To make any attempt to do so is dancing precariously close to the line of exercising DESPOTISM over the people. Which is exactly why the founding fathers ensured we had a bill of rights written and ratified. At least take some time to seriously think through the implications of any legislation you may want to consider. V/R Charles

What happened to the campaign promise of cost cutting, lower taxes and making life more affordable for citizens? Defending the bills in court will use taxpayers cash, court time ,labor..Raising taxes on items you don't like and stating costs will lowered is a lie..from the general assembly to the governors office..Honor your oath and correct your lies with truth..Vote no on gun bills..

Politicians system of tax , spend, waste, is a system created by them ..This has been around for years A corrupt system of power. A group think of nonsense..Where they can only see there side and are blinded to any common sense..Will not listen to anyone and if they seem interested it is just to look good in front of everyone..They pretend to listen.But there mind is made up already on there own plans. The liberal base who voted for them include guns owners..This should tell you they don't care about there voting bloc..They know this will end up in court ..Wasting tax payers money ..The courts time..And don't care about citizens in general. There campaign mantra was cut costs for citizens.But taxpayer cash will be used to defend there gun bills

I urge you to vote "NO" on all the above bills,. We are already taxed enough! I believe the new Governor pledged to make VA affordable and that would logically mean no more taxation!

Good morning, and thank you for the opportunity to speak. I’m here today to address why this proposed state tax on suppressors is unnecessary, economically harmful, and disconnected from public safety. At the federal level, lawmakers recently removed the $200 federal tax stamp that had long been attached to suppressors. That change recognized an important reality: suppressors are not criminal tools—they are safety devices. They reduce harmful noise, protect hearing, and lessen the impact on surrounding communities. Despite that federal shift, this proposal would move our state in the opposite direction by imposing a $500 state tax on the very same lawful item. Suppressors remain heavily regulated even without the federal tax. Purchasers are still subject to extensive background checks, fingerprinting, registration requirements, and approval processes through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Nothing about this bill improves oversight or accountability. It simply adds cost. That cost has real consequences. A $500 state tax will not deter criminals—because criminals do not acquire suppressors through lawful channels. What it will do is suppress economic activity inside this state. Consumers will purchase elsewhere, businesses will lose sales, and in-state manufacturers and dealers will be put at a competitive disadvantage. Lawful commerce will decline, while neighboring states benefit. This proposal effectively replaces a removed federal tax with a larger state-level penalty, undoing economic momentum rather than building on it. Any projected revenue must be weighed against reduced sales, lost jobs, and businesses choosing not to operate here at all. There is also a fairness issue. When the government stacks fees this high, it creates a system where lawful ownership is dictated by income. That is not public safety—it is a financial barrier imposed on compliance. Finally, this bill sets a troubling precedent. If the state can justify a $500 tax on suppressors today, it becomes easier to justify new taxes on other lawful equipment tomorrow. That kind of incremental policy creep erodes trust and punishes responsibility. Suppressors reduce noise. They protect hearing. They are already regulated. The federal government recognized this by removing its tax burden. This bill ignores that reality and replaces it with an even heavier one—at the expense of our state’s economy and law-abiding citizens. For those reasons, I urge you to oppose this proposal. Thank you for your time.

How did the authors of the bills such as a 500 dollar tax on suppressors,11 percent tax on ammo, create the numbers? Research ? Educated guess? Tax fairy? Similar to the dog walking tax...Nonsense tax meant to fund bloated programs...If as a delegate and if you have common sense you would vote against all of the anti gun bills..Citizens ,Lafave vs Fairfax county is a case of Fairfax county being sued in court by Lafave. Fairfax denied carry in parks.. The case had made its way to the supreme Court..Judge Roberts granted the writ on the shadow docket. Fairfax has until Feb 16 26 to answer ..If the case is accepted and plaintiff wins..This will affect other gun laws..

Adding a higher tax on firearms will make it so only the rich can afford them. This will not stop crime in any way or form.

I’m writing to let my concerns known on all of these laws that are being voted upon. We as law aboding citizens are the only ones that will be affected and obey these laws. You want to decrease the time criminals do for horrible crimes such as murder and rape, but make law abiding citizens (that have done nothing wrong) into criminals. We obey the laws (most i see as unconstitutional) and then you turn around and make those rights into crimes and punishments. “Assault Weapons” as you refer to them have been around since the 1940s. Everything i have obtained, i did so legally. Now you want to make them illegal, and even go as far as to punish me for doing so. Why do we play these ignorant games. Legal one day, illegal another! We have right under the 2nd Amendment. How does doing any of this make people “safe”? Criminals will use whatever they do to commit crimes, cause that is their very nature. Disarm the public and allow criminals to take advantage of your laws. We will be less safe. How does charging $500 tax on suppressors make anyone safe? You are just mad they did away with the tax. We will still purchase these items, but you just punish us for doing so. You do nothing to make us safe , and you tax us on more than just firearms! You take, and take and take, yet provide nothing more! What happened to running on affordability? Taxes on dog grooming, home repairs, vehicle repairs, and so much more. Increase our taxes when our state was doing so well that we had a surplus if 2.2 billion dollars. You count on people being ignorant, but by doing that you educate them. I hope you can put you pride and egos aside, and realize we are starting to do better. All you will do is hurt your citizens with these numerous amount of laws and taxes. As politicians you are called upon to make our lives better. You cant make us safer by what you propose. You will only destroy our trust and our economy. We are not ignorant people that need to be taken care of. We need you to get out if our way and let us live our lives and protect ourselves. One last thing. Europe did this to their population and knife crimes skyrocketed. Everyone of you know this. Do the right thing and empower us to live our lives. Don't put more laws and taxes on us. There is more to Virginia than Richmond. As a veteran i have taken the same oath. I still honor that oath, as i hope you all do.

I’m writing to let my concerns known on all of these laws that are being voted upon. We as law aboding citizens are the only ones that will be affected and obey these laws. You want to decrease the time criminals do for horrible crimes such as murder and rape, but make law abiding citizens (that have done nothing wrong) into criminals. We obey the laws (most i see as unconstitutional) and then you turn around and make those rights into crimes and punishments. “Assault Weapons” as you refer to them have been around since the 1940s. Everything i have obtained, i did so legally. Now you want to make them illegal, and even go as far as to punish me for doing so. Why do we play these ignorant games. Legal one day, illegal another! We have right under the 2nd Amendment. How does doing any of this make people “safe”? Criminals will use whatever they do to commit crimes, cause that is their very nature. Disarm the public and allow criminals to take advantage of your laws. We will be less safe. How does charging $500 tax on suppressors make anyone safe? You are just mad they did away with the tax. We will still purchase these items, but you just punish us for doing so. You do nothing to make us safe , and you tax us on more than just firearms! You take, and take and take, yet provide nothing more! What happened to running on affordability? Taxes on dog grooming, home repairs, vehicle repairs, and so much more. Increase our taxes when our state was doing so well that we had a surplus if 2.2 billion dollars. You count on people being ignorant, but by doing that you educate them. I hope you can put you pride and egos aside, and realize we are starting to do better. All you will do is hurt your citizens with these numerous amount of laws and taxes. As politicians you are called upon to make our lives better. You cant make us safer by what you propose. You will only destroy our trust and our economy. We are not ignorant people that need to be taken care of. We need you to get out if our way and let us live our lives and protect ourselves. One last thing. Europe did this to their population and knife crimes skyrocketed. Everyone of you know this. Do the right thing and empower us to live our lives. Don't put more laws and taxes on us. There is more to Virginia than Richmond. As a veteran i have taken the same oath. I still honor that oath, as i hope you all do.

Do not vote for these bills

I oppose any and all legislation that goes against the second amendment. The 2nd amendment is a right not a privilege that can be taken away period . How about dealing with the criminals and being harder on them like reinstating the death penalty!

I am opposed to ANY law that limits my ability to carry, use, purchase, or own firearms. This includes the right to carry in public places or my vehicle, and it includes the right to defend myself. I am totally and completely opposed to ANY leftist agenda, and I am informing you, whoever you are, that there is a lot of anger out here over what's going on in our state, and indeed, in our nation and our world. It's become apparent that, far from what we voted for, Pres. Trump will continue to knuckle under to the left. Therefore, we shall have to fight for our rights in our state. Be warned: not everyone will knuckle under! There are some of us patriots left!

The recent passage of HB217 and related gun control measures in the Virginia House, including bans on so-called "assault firearms" and large-capacity magazines, represents a direct assault on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Virginians. These laws, which criminalize the sale, manufacture, and transfer of commonly owned firearms, ignore the Constitution's clear protections and the Founding Fathers' intent. The Second Amendment states: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." James Madison, the amendment's primary drafter, emphasized in Federalist No. 46 that an armed citizenry serves as a bulwark against tyranny, arguing that the federal government would be restrained by "the advantage of being armed which the Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation." Similarly, Thomas Jefferson wrote in a 1787 letter to William Stephens Smith that "what country can preserve its liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms." The Founders viewed the right to bear arms as essential for self-defense, hunting, and resisting oppression—not limited to outdated muskets, but evolving with technology. Supreme Court precedents affirm this. In District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), the Court held that the Second Amendment protects an individual's right to possess firearms for lawful purposes, including self-defense, and struck down D.C.'s handgun ban. Justice Scalia noted that it safeguards "arms in common use at the time," which today includes semi-automatic rifles like those targeted by HB217. McDonald v. Chicago (2010) extended this to the states via the Fourteenth Amendment. Most recently, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022) invalidated restrictive carry laws, requiring gun regulations to align with historical traditions—something Virginia's broad bans fail to do, as they prohibit weapons millions of Americans own without incident. These measures won't reduce crime—criminals ignore laws—but they disarm the innocent. Virginia's Founders, like Patrick Henry, warned against disarming the people: "Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect everyone who approaches that jewel." Lawmakers should repeal these unconstitutional infringements and uphold our heritage of freedom.

You have all betrayed your constituents with all of these new laws stripping our constitutional rights. Trying to make it so hard to own, carry, and purchase guns and ammunition that people just give up or cant afford it. Expansion of the Red Flag laws to people who are in no way qualified to make that decision to strip someone of their constitution rights. Giving that option especially to Spouses like no one would ever use that to satisfy a grudge against an ex. Also creating a system that punishes people for seeking help with medical counselors or lose their constitutional rights. The tax on ammunition alone is an obvious attempt to make it even harder for people to afford to practice with their firearms which is required for proficiency and price people out of purchasing them to begin with. The tax on suppressor when the fed stamp has been removed is just more obvious money grabbing and trying to make it restricted by putting a "poll tax" on it just like ammunition. Trying to outlaw the sale of commononly used firearms like AKs and ARs even though the Supreme Court has already ruled that the second amendment protects guns in common use. This is the first time ever I have been absolutely ashamed to be a Virginian in my entire life. You have all sold out the people and every one of you should lose your seat if you vote for these bills. Why do you need all these new taxes when you were handed a several billion dollar surplus at the end of last year? Answer is its not about the money, its about taking away guns. Try staying out of our wallets, homes, and lives for a change. How about fulfilling the promise of affordability that was made? How about reducing taxes instead of creating new ones? How about protecting the freedom of Virginians instead of trying to control us so you can use us like little cash shelters. Disgusting behavior and you should all be ashamed.

HB 1135, HB 1351, HB 188, HB 243, HB 334, HB 341, HB 378, hb 550, HB 557, HB 563, HB 720, HB 784, HB 897, HB 919, HB 946, HB 959, HB 961, HB 978, SB 400, SB 763. I oppose all of these bills.

HB978 More sales tax is outrageous. We pay enough in taxes let alone adding another one. Seems you all want small businesses to lose more money. This is not what anyone wants more and more taxes HB13 If you are taking away this tax why don’t you go ahead and also take away the new food tax yall added to dining out. How many xtra taxes will be added?

This is the first time I have submitted a comment. Virginians have many needs, and it costs money to address them. Federal cuts make it harder for Virginia to provide healthcare, address emergencies, protect our planet, educate our kids, and enable our residents to safely and (reasonably) quickly travel to work, family, and social activities I urge the Assembly to pass progressive and equitable tax reforms that close loopholes and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share of programs that benefit us all. Right now the top 1% pay the least in taxes as a percentage of their income. This is obviously unfair! I am not thrilled to pay taxes, but I am willing to help fund services for all and a bit more for the needy. I am not OK with providing more to the wealthiest. I urge the General Assembly to pass HB 243, HB 378, HB 978, and HB 979 as critical tax reforms that help ensure the wealthy pay their fair share and will fund vital government programs that support all Virginians.

HB 1135, HB 1351, HB 188, HB 243, HB 334, HB 341, HB 378, hb 550, HB 557, HB 563, HB 720, HB 784, HB 897, HB 919, HB 946, HB 959, HB 961, HB 978, SB 400, SB 763. I oppose all of these bills.

I strongly support a more progressive and fair tax system. As the Federal government guts services, Virginia needs new sources of revenue if we want to maintain our school lunch programs, rural hospitals, green infrastructure investment, and effective emergency response programs. Currently our taxes cap out at $17,000, putting the burden on those who can least afford to pay. I urge you to invest in Virginia, and pass the Fair Share Tax reforms.

OPPOSED to these bills!!!

Please see the attached submission in opposition to HB 900 and HB978 regarding sales tax on self storage units.

Chairman Sullivan and Members of the Subcommittee:   Mid-Atlantic NATO, the organization representing movie theater owners and operators in Virginia, opposes HB 900 and HB 978 in their current forms.  While any new tax on theater admissions will have a chilling effect on sales, applying state and local sales tax to admissions would be particularly onerous to theaters and other entertainment venues in localities that already levy hefty admissions taxes.  As an example, the City of Williamsburg charges an admissions tax of 10% on ticket sales.  It also has one of the highest combined state and local sales tax rates in the Commonwealth of 7%.  If ticket sales were subjected to state and local sales taxes on top of the admissions tax, the effective tax rate on an admissions ticket in Williamsburg would be 17%!  This is significantly higher than the combined tax rates on admissions anywhere else in the country.  Either an exemption or a credit against sales tax collections where an admissions tax has been separately collected would be an appropriate remedy to address this concern so that movie theaters and other entertainment venues aren’t subjected to double taxation under this bill.  Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Please see the attached testimony.

Federal cuts endanger Virginia emergency preparedness, green energy support, healthcare access, education, and transportation infrastructure. I urge the Assembly to pass progressive and equitable tax reforms that close loopholes and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share. Right now the top 1% pay the least in taxes as a percentage of their income. I urge the General Assembly to pass HB 243, HB 378, HB 978, and HB 979 as critical tax reforms that help ensure the wealthy pay their fair share and will fund vital government programs that support all Virginians.

Federal cuts endanger Virginia emergency preparedness, green energy support, healthcare access, education, and transportation infrastructure. I urge the Assembly to pass progressive and equitable tax reforms that close loopholes and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share. Right now the top 1% pay the least in taxes as a percentage of their income. I urge the General Assembly to pass HB 243, HB 378, HB 978, and HB 979 as critical tax reforms that help ensure the wealthy pay their fair share and will fund vital government programs that support all Virginians.

Please see the attachment

Dear Chairperson Sullivan and Members of Subcommittee #3: On behalf of the Council On State Taxation (COST), I appreciate the opportunity to submit comments regarding H.B. 978, legislation that would substantially expand Virginia’s sales and use tax base to include digital personal property, digital services, and a wide range of taxable services. COST supports efforts to modernize state tax systems; however, I write to strongly urge the Subcommittee to include broad business‑to‑business (B2B) exemptions in H.B. 978. As drafted, the bill would violate fundamental principles of sound tax policy by imposing substantial taxes on business inputs, distorting economic decision‑making, and creating cascading tax burdens that ultimately harm Virginia’s competitiveness.

Attached is Americans for Tax Reform’s written opposition to HB 978.

My name is Jessica Mott of Arlington VA. I support HB978 and HB900, which would levy the sales and use tax on digital and other specified services as well as digital property. Obviously these bills differ in details and would need to be reconciled, but both proposals are commendable. JLARC and other studies show that Virginia's tax system needs modernization to reflect our "new" economy. Virginia currently levies taxes on fewer types of services than 40 other states, even though residents now spend twice as much on services as on goods. Virginia taxes lawnmowers but not lawn services, for example. Although in general sales and use taxes are not necessarily economically "progressive" in impact, (i.e. impose higher taxes on those who are richer), most of the specified services proposed to be taxed are discretionary, which means that overall, the proposed bill's impact would be more progressive than many sales taxes. I am pleased that the HB978’s proposed exemption of sales tax on food and personal hygiene products would help offset impact on essential goods, while HB900 would help offset the tax impact by decreasing the overall existing sales tax rate for goods. I also support the bill's proposed allocation of the state portion of these taxes for transportation and, in the case of HB900, schooling (especially high-need populations). These investments are important to the long-term economic well-being of our state.

On behalf of Chamber of Progress, a tech industry association supporting public policies to build a more inclusive society in which all people benefit from technological advancements, I respectfully urge you to oppose two provisions of HB 978: the new tax on delivery and shipping services and the tax on business-to-business digital services. Together, these provisions would raise costs on Virginia families both directly, through a new 4.3% tax on delivery fees, and indirectly, by taxing the digital business inputs that power Virginia's economy and passing those costs through to consumers.

To the Chair and Members of the Committee, My name is Kenji Hisatsune, and I am the owner and operator of Hanabi Ramen in Arlington, Virginia. I am writing to respectfully, strongly oppose a proposed delivery tax. Before opening Hanabi Ramen, I spent decades working in the technology and gaming industry but after retiring in 2016, I decided to pursue a lifelong dream of opening my own restaurant. I chose Arlington, Virginia because I believed there was an opportunity to bring authentic, high-quality Japanese ramen to the community. Since opening in 2017, I have been deeply involved in every aspect of the business, from recipe development to staff training. Hanabi Ramen employs 14 people, and maintaining quality and consistency requires significant time, care, and investment. Staffing remains one of the greatest challenges we face, and every additional cost makes it harder to operate sustainably. We partner with DoorDash, which accounts for roughly 10% of our sales. While my passion remains serving guests in person, delivery plays an important role in reaching new and repeat customers and supporting overall business stability. It also helps customers who may not be able to dine in regularly still enjoy our food. The delivery tax this committee is considering would add another financial burden on both customers and restaurants. In an industry with thin margins, even small increases in cost can have outsized effects. Delivery taxes risk discouraging customers from ordering and reducing revenue that supports local jobs and small businesses. Virginia’s restaurant community thrives when policies support, not penalize, innovation and accessibility. I respectfully urge the committee to reject a delivery tax and consider the real-world impact it would have on small, local owner-operated businesses like mine. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Kenji Hisatsune Owner, Hanabi Ramen

To the Chair and Members of the Committee, My name is Masoud Shoja, and I am a Virginia small business owner who has worked in the restaurant industry for more than 15 years. My family opened our first restaurant in 1997, and today we operate more than a dozen small businesses, including Reston Kabob, Grill Kabob, Ivy by the Lake, and Eat More Taco. I am a part of the fabric of our state’s small business community and I am proud to submit this testimony in opposition to a proposed delivery tax. Working alongside my family has been one of the most rewarding parts of my life. We built our businesses from the ground up, starting with very little, and over time we have grown by reinvesting in our communities. I have watched Virginia grow, and I am proud to be part of that growth. I have also been in this industry long enough to remember what it was like before delivery platforms existed. In the past, restaurants were limited by geography. Today, delivery partners allow us to reach customers 15 to 20 miles away, something that was simply not possible before. Delivery from apps like DoorDash now accounts for nearly 35% of our total orders, and it plays a major role in sustaining our businesses. Beyond expanding our customer base, delivery platforms like DoorDash have also given us valuable branding and promotional tools. They help new customers discover our restaurants and keep existing customers coming back. This is especially important in an industry with tight margins and intense competition. The delivery tax this Committee is considering would directly harm our bottom line by adding yet another cost to an already challenging industry. Restaurants are still facing rising food prices, labor shortages, and higher operating expenses. Adding a tax to delivery orders would either reduce demand or force businesses or customers to absorb costs they cannot afford. Ultimately, delivery taxes do not fall on large corporations, they fall on small business owners like me, workers like those we employ, and the customers who keep our doors open. I respectfully ask the committee to consider the impact this policy would have on local restaurants like mine and to reject a delivery tax. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Masoud Shoja

See attached.

To the Chair and Members of the Committee, My name is Mohammad Ali from Northern Virginia, and I am the owner of America’s Best Wings. I opened my first location five years ago, and by 2025, we had grown to six locations across the state. I am proud of that growth, and I am submitting this testimony to express my strong opposition to a proposed delivery tax. Like many Virginia businesses, my company has evolved over time to meet the growing demand for online food delivery. Today, we rely heavily on consumers ordering food for delivery - both through third-party platforms and directly from our stores. Delivery is not a luxury for our customers: it is an essential service. Delivery plays a particularly important role during inclement or unpredictable weather. Many of our customers choose delivery because they have families at home, safety concerns, or other reasons that make driving difficult or unsafe. In my view, more delivery drivers on the road often means fewer individual cars overall, contributing to safer streets. Even in good weather, delivery provides access to food for people who are unable to drive due to age, disability, or other circumstances. What I love most about being a business owner is being able to provide quality, affordable food to my community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when the cost of chicken rose dramatically, I made the decision not to raise prices. I did not want to shift that burden onto my customers, many of whom were already struggling. That is why I was upset when I learned about the new proposed delivery tax the legislature is considering. If this tax is imposed on consumers, it will discourage people from ordering online and hurt small businesses like mine. Most retailers today rely on delivery as part of their business model. Many have downsized their physical footprints specifically to serve customers through delivery. Imposing a new tax punishes businesses and consumers who have adapted to meet modern demands and needs. In this economy, consumers are already penny-pinching. Adding another fee simply to raise state revenue creates unnecessary hardship. With millions of Virginians ordering delivery, this tax would take tens of millions of dollars out of consumers’ pockets – money that could otherwise support local businesses and families. I respectfully urge the committee to reject a delivery tax and to consider the unintended consequences it would have on safety, affordability, and small businesses across Virginia. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Mohammad Ali Owner, America’s Best Wings

Sometimes the only option for senior citizens to get a particular item, is to have it delivered. Taxing the delivery provided by the seller or a service company is another burden on someone living on a fixed income. Please do not add another tax to anything that would raise the cost of maintaining a decent lifestyle. What happened to the "affordability" agenda?? I don't think that new or increased taxes is working in that direction. Please do not pass this bill.

Delegate Watts and Delegate Sullivan, Please see comments attached regarding HB 900 and HB 978. Thank you. Respectfully submitted, Daniel Bryant Self Storage Association

I always give the incoming, party the benefit of doubt, but when they start off with nothing but taxes and attacking the 2nd amendment i start having a lot of doubt.

Taxing these types of services hurts our economy at the local level. Our small businesses and therapists don't need more financial barriers to providing the services that they do! Reallocate funds or find different means of taxation to fund projects. This is going to do nothing but harm struggling businesses in an already precarious economy.

I worry about my therapist bill going up. It's already so hard to find a good therapist at a doable rate that adding to it with sales tax doesn't sound like something I want.

Dear Chairman Sullivan, and Members of the Subcommittee, I am submitting for the record, comments regarding HB 900 and HB978. Thank you for your time and consideration. Zane Kerby President and CEO, American Society of Travel Advisors

I write in opposition to this bill, particularly on the basis of it including counseling services. I am a priest of the Episcopal Church and I am married to a mental health counselor with an MSW working toward his LCSW. In my professional life, particularly in operating a homeless shelter, I see we have a mental health crisis in the Commonwealth and in our country. Why would we make it harder for people to seek mental health counseling through taxation? For LCSWs, LPCs, and other trained professionals offering mental health through tested means other than medical licensing, we are creating roadblocks. The cost of running a mental health clinic or establishing a private practice already is cost prohibitive without additional taxation. Virginia needs to make it easier to access counseling services or trained counselors will flee to more accommodating states leaving Virginians without access to their much needed services.

I am writing to oppose HB978 because of its harmful impact on small businesses in Virginia, particularly those providing digital content services mental health services. This bill would place additional tax burdens on small business owners who already operate on narrow margins. Many of these businesses exist specifically to provide affordable, accessible products and services to individuals who would otherwise be unable to afford similar services from larger corporations. Increasing taxes on these small business owners risks forcing them to raise prices, reduce services, or close altogether / take their services out of state. These outcomes would disproportionately harm low- and middle-income Virginians. I am especially concerned about the effects this bill would have on mental health service providers. I personally rely on mental health services and have experienced firsthand how difficult it can be to find affordable, in-person care. I've also personally experienced the overwhelmingly positive effects of these services in my working and personal life and know how vital it is for citizens to have access. This bill threatens to reduce access to care at a time when demand for these services is already high. I strongly oppose this bill and urge consideration of policies that support, rather undermine, small businesses providing essential services to Virginia's communities.

I am a small business owner offering digital services to small local businesses. I provide affordable website services because most of my clients can't afford large, more expensive firms. I strongly oppose HB978. This bill will raise costs for small businesses that are already struggling under our failing economy, and this bill will place additional burdens on small business owners like myself who are struggling to make ends meet as it is. We will be required to spend more money on tax experts to help us navigate the addition of sales tax to the non-tangible services we provide. Additionally, my wife works for a mental health therapy office, and the clients who come to see them are often struggling to afford mental health services as it is. By adding a tax to those services, you are putting vital mental health help even further out of reach at a time when we ought to be making it more accessible to the residents of our Commonwealth. If the Commonwealth of Virginia needs more revenue, there must be better ways to achieve that goal that do not include adding to the financial burden of the struggling middle class. There is no legitimate reason to advance this horrible bill.

This bill will hurt liscenced clinicians providing privet pay counseling. This bill will cause undue stress on families seeking counseling for their children and teens. With rising prices therapist also have to raise fees in order to pay fees, rent, and insurance. Trauma therapy is already a cost for those who need services for their children and teens. This bill punishes private providers and clients in a time when mental health issues are on the rise. This bill could put private providers out of buissness and limit accessibility to needed mental health services for families. This will affect the mental health of our state down the road. Not to mention an added stress to CPS! Therapy is not a commodity it is a life giving, life protecting force. Do not tax small buissness couseling providers. Do not treat us like Mcdonalds! We hold the mental health of Virginia's future leaders in our hands!

As a professor training clinical psychologists, and a licensed psychologist, the addition of tax to the outpatient mental healthcare system will push the limits of this essential system of small practices across Virginia who provide care. It will add administrative bloat to a deeply overloaded system of Healthcare. Mental healthcare is already a profession with limited expectations for living a middle class professional life. It will also drive the best therapists out of the state of Virginia when we want the best mental healthcare here. And in the end the cost passes on to clients who are already struggling with mental health- so why tax them in their time of distress? Less taxes. If nothing else those politicians that raise taxes get replaced in the next election.

As a licensed mental-health therapist in Virginia, I am deeply concerned about the expansion of sales tax to services that overlap with behavioral health and counseling. This bill reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of how mental-health care is delivered and risks creating confusion between regulated clinical treatment and unregulated “personal services.” Mental-health providers already operate under extensive regulatory, ethical, and administrative requirements. Expanding tax obligations, particularly where services may include psychoeducation, group work, or preventive care, increases overhead for small practices and ultimately raises costs for patients. This bill will disproportionately impact vulnerable populations who already struggle to access care. Any policy that discourages providers from offering preventative or supportive services will increase long-term public costs through crisis intervention, hospitalization, and disability. I urge lawmakers to reconsider taxing services that directly support mental health and to provide clearer protections for licensed professionals whose work is already regulated as health care. Mental-health care should not be treated as a discretionary luxury or revenue stream.

Virginians do not need access to mental health services to get even harder! Adding a tax to mental health services would further reduce the number of families able to receive the care they need. I’m a mental health therapist and I see first hand how the cost impacts families. Waitlists for providers who can take insurance are 6 months or more long. I’m also a Virginian without health insurance who can’t afford a therapist herself.

I am writing to bring awareness of how this bill will hurt the majority of people requiring mental health services. We are in a mental health crisis. As a trauma counselor, I have a waiting list for clients at all times and rural areas are even worse. Most of us work as small businesses and sole proprietors which means we pay the most taxes of any other population. With a proposed tax on counseling services, you will force those of us that continue to accept insurance reimbursement to stop doing so because we are already taking a loss with poor reimbursement. The tax would almost certainly need to be passed onto the individual receiving services, thus making mental health services unobtainable for most individuals, thus making the mental health crisis even worse. With the elimination of counselors being able to take out student loans as professionals, as well as new taxes being employed on those that already work in the field, you are not only worsening the mental health crisis in the immediate future, you are making it impossible for new counselors to come into the profession, thus worsening care for the long term future. This bill is irresponsible. We already pay unfair, increased taxes, increased license fees, increased business license fees, self employment taxes, etc. I ask that you reject this bill in an effort to make mental health services possible.

As a member of the Working Families Party and a Virginia resident, I strongly oppose HB978. While we support eliminating the grocery tax, which disproportionately burdens working families, this bill's massive expansion of sales taxes is fundamentally regressive and will hurt the very people it claims to help. HB978 would impose new taxes on essential services that working families cannot avoid: Home and vehicle repairs Laundry and dry cleaning Delivery and shipping fees Sales taxes are inherently regressive as they take a larger percentage of income from low- and moderate-income families than from the wealthy. A family struggling to pay for car repairs or maintain their home will be hit harder by these new taxes than they'll save on groceries. If we want to eliminate the grocery tax, let's do it without expanding regressive taxation. Virginia should pursue progressive revenue solutions that ask more from those who can afford it, not policies that shift the tax burden onto working people trying to keep up with basic expenses. I urge the General Assembly to reject HB978 and develop truly progressive tax reform that prioritizes working families.

As someone who spent decades working in a small, family‑owned construction company, I’m strongly opposed to HB 978. This bill adds new taxes to everyday services that working people and small businesses rely on, and it does so at a time when costs are already rising across the board. In construction, margins are tight, materials are expensive, and customers are already stretched thin. Adding sales tax to labor and essential services doesn’t just hit businesses — it hits every homeowner who needs a repair, every driver who needs their car fixed, and every family trying to stay active with a gym membership. These aren’t luxury purchases. They’re basic parts of life and work. Small businesses don’t have the ability to absorb these new taxes. They’ll be forced to pass the added cost on to customers, which means higher prices, fewer projects, and less work to go around. HB 978 punishes the very people who keep Virginia running: tradespeople, service workers, and the small companies that form the backbone of our economy. After a lifetime in a hands‑on industry, I can say with confidence that HB 978 moves Virginia in the wrong direction. Instead of making life more affordable, it adds another layer of cost to the services people depend on every day.

Abjectly opposed to ANY new taxes for ANY reason. We have an overabundance of money in this state as it is and are taxed enough.

My name is Andrew, and I am the owner of Second Sons Promotions, LLC, a small concert promotion company based in Spotsylvania Courthouse, Virginia. We’ve brought live music and entertainment to communities across the Commonwealth, hosting events that foster cultural vibrancy, support local artists, and boost our local economy. I am writing to express my strong opposition to House Bill 978, which seeks to expand the retail sales and use tax to a broad array of services, including admissions and event planning. I urge you to lay this bill on the table and prevent it from advancing further. HB 978 represents an unwarranted tax hike that would disproportionately burden small businesses like mine in the entertainment industry. By imposing sales tax on admissions—the very tickets that allow Virginians to enjoy concerts, festivals, and live performances—this bill would directly increase costs for consumers. In an era where families are already grappling with inflation and rising living expenses, adding a tax on entertainment would make these outings less affordable, leading to reduced attendance and fewer events overall. As a promoter, I rely on ticket sales to cover venue rentals, artist fees, marketing, and operational costs. This new tax would force me to either absorb the hit, squeezing my already thin margins, or pass it on to attendees, potentially pricing out working-class fans who make up the core of our audiences. Moreover, the bill’s taxation of “travel, event, and aesthetic planning services” strikes at the heart of what we do. Organizing concerts involves intricate planning, from logistics to creative staging, and taxing these services would add unnecessary financial strain on promoters. Small outfits like mine don’t have the resources of large corporations to navigate complex tax compliance or offset these costs. We’re a lean operation, employing local staff, vendors, and security—jobs that could be jeopardized if events become less viable. Virginia’s music scene contributes significantly to tourism and economic growth, generating millions in revenue for hotels, restaurants, and transportation. By taxing admissions and related services, HB 978 risks stifling this vital sector, leading to fewer shows, lost income for artists, and diminished community gatherings that bring people together. The bill’s focus on redirecting revenues to transportation funds and localities, while perhaps well-intentioned, overlooks the regressive nature of these taxes. They hit everyday Virginians hardest, especially in rural areas like Spotsylvania where entertainment options are limited and cherished. Instead of expanding taxes on services that are already struggling post-pandemic, we should be exploring ways to support small businesses and cultural industries through incentives, not penalties. This legislation feels like a broad-brush approach that fails to consider the unique challenges faced by promoters and event organizers. HB 978 would harm Virginia’s entertainment landscape, small businesses, and consumers without providing meaningful benefits to offset the damage. I respectfully request that the Committee lay this bill on the table to protect our industry’s future and the joy it brings to countless Virginians. Thank you for your consideration.

Virginia desperately needs a more progressive and equitable tax code that ensures the wealthy pay the fair share. Currently, the top 1% pay the last of their earnings as a percentage of their income. As wealth disparity grows, and the Federal government withdraws support for critical services, the Commonwealth of Virginia should act immediately to ensure that our rural clinics, hospitals, schools, emergency response, and transportation infrastructure is fully funded. Our future depends on ensuring we invest in ourselves today.

I am writing with deep concern about House Bill 978, which would levy tax on services, including travel. As a travel agency owner since 2019, this would have grave impact on my business., Coastwise Travel. After recovering from the shutdown and travel ban during the pandemic years, my business has finally experienced a year of growth and success. Legislation of this sort would be very harmful. I offer personalized, custom travel planning services. My clients trust me to provide profesional service, based on ongoing education, knowledge, expertise and care. The market is full of competitors that don't offer that level of service and expertise: large corporations and online travel agencies — such as Expedia and Booking.com -- big box stores with call centers, such as Costco, direct bookings with cruise lines and hotels, and as we go into the future, AI-generated booking opportunties. My service fees are a small amount of compensation for the time I invest in planning and supporting my clients’ trips. Often I am planning 1-2 years in advance of my clients’ travel. It is not until my clients travel that I receive any commission payment, so I invest a lot of time and effort without any revenue other than the small service fee paid when the trip is initiated. I count on those services fees to fund my operational expenses in the meantime. I do not hold any other funds from clients; all other payments are direct to the supplier, such as a cruise line, hotel (or booking service), airline, transportation company, insurance company or tour operator. Levying a tax on my service fees immediately reduces my potential revenue and requires me to increase my fees to cover the difference. Although many of my clients live in my community, they refer their friends and family, so my client base is distributed across the country, in all fifty states. Taxing travel services in Virginia simply means that my clients will find a business out of state to book their travel and the cost increases from levies, and will forgo the utilization of a locally-based professional travel agency like Coastwise Travel. That diversion of revenue would be the end of my business. Unlike other businesses whose services take place locally, travelers can choose to work with a travel agency located anywhere. For example, a landscaping service needs to be physically present at a site to provide their services. Plumbing customers don’t have the option to redirect their business to an Arizona company to avoid the tax in Virginia. But my clients can easily move to a travel agency located in states who do not levy such taxes. I can’t afford to lose them. This legislation has the potential to do so much harm to travel agencies in Virginia. While travel is often recreational, it is also frequently essential, whether for business or for emergencies. Travel services provided by professional travel advisors must be considered essential as well. I join with the hundreds of Virginia travel advisors, the majority of whom are female-owned small businesses, to ask you to oppose this legislation, or to exclude travel planning from the proposed levies. It unfairly penalizes our industry and minimizes our ability to compete in a national market.. I’m asking for your support for small businesses like myself in evaluating this proposed legislation. Thank you for your consideration.

As a Virginia resident and voter, I am writing to let you know that I strongly oppose HB243, HB 978, HB188, and HB 979. Virginians are already burdened with high taxes and high cost of living. These bills will only further punish those paying taxes in this state and will likely drive taxpayers, including those with very high incomes, to other states with lower tax burdens. Please reconsider. The prior administration left the state with a surplus. Increased taxes should not be needed to meet the needs of the state.

I strongly oppose this bill. In rural areas a lot of elderly people rely on services provided by cleaners an house keepers to maintain a livable home. Also extra taxes on home repairs and maintenance is uncalled for , especially when money is tight for so many people right now. Do you think it is right to charge people extra to repair their furnace to keep from freezing to death? This is outrageous behavior from a party who ran on a platform of making things more affordable for Virginians.

Small businesses face added administrative burdens under HB 978, as they must now collect and remit sales tax on services like repairs, potentially raising operational costs. This could reduce demand and increase costs for services like gym memberships, home repairs, UberEats and Amazon deliveries, A 4.3% statewide tax hike (plus a potential 1% local hike) is substantial. We oppose the bill

This is the first time I have submitted a comment. Virginians have many needs, and it costs money to address them. Federal cuts make it harder for Virginia to provide healthcare, address emergencies, protect our planet, educate our kids, and enable our residents to safely and (reasonably) quickly travel to work, family, and social activities I urge the Assembly to pass progressive and equitable tax reforms that close loopholes and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share of programs that benefit us all. Right now the top 1% pay the least in taxes as a percentage of their income. This is obviously unfair! I am not thrilled to pay taxes, but I am willing to help fund services for all and a bit more for the needy. I am not OK with providing more to the wealthiest. I urge the General Assembly to pass HB 243, HB 378, HB 978, and HB 979 as critical tax reforms that help ensure the wealthy pay their fair share and will fund vital government programs that support all Virginians.

I strongly support a more progressive and fair tax system. As the Federal government guts services, Virginia needs new sources of revenue if we want to maintain our school lunch programs, rural hospitals, green infrastructure investment, and effective emergency response programs. Currently our taxes cap out at $17,000, putting the burden on those who can least afford to pay. I urge you to invest in Virginia, and pass the Fair Share Tax reforms.

OPPOSED to these bills!!!

Federal cuts endanger Virginia emergency preparedness, green energy support, healthcare access, education, and transportation infrastructure. I urge the Assembly to pass progressive and equitable tax reforms that close loopholes and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share. Right now the top 1% pay the least in taxes as a percentage of their income. I urge the General Assembly to pass HB 243, HB 378, HB 978, and HB 979 as critical tax reforms that help ensure the wealthy pay their fair share and will fund vital government programs that support all Virginians.

Federal cuts endanger Virginia emergency preparedness, green energy support, healthcare access, education, and transportation infrastructure. I urge the Assembly to pass progressive and equitable tax reforms that close loopholes and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share. Right now the top 1% pay the least in taxes as a percentage of their income. I urge the General Assembly to pass HB 243, HB 378, HB 978, and HB 979 as critical tax reforms that help ensure the wealthy pay their fair share and will fund vital government programs that support all Virginians.

I oppose HB 979. Virginia taxes are already too high: Virginia has a 5.75% top income tax rate, compared to the 3.99% top income tax rate in North Carolina. Yet this bill would raise taxes even higher, giving Virginia 8% and 10% tax rates, much higher than most states in this country. 10% is much higher than the rates in most neighboring states, such as Kentucky (which has a top rate of 3.5%), Tennessee (which has no state income tax at all), and West Virginia (which has a top rate of 4.82%). Virginia is richer than those states and has a bigger tax base, so Virginia should be able to get by with lower tax rates than most of its neighbors, such as North Carolina. Yet under this bill, the top rate in Virginia would be more than twice as high as in most neighboring states. This bill also might cause Virginia's tax base to shrink, by driving wealthy and productive residents to other states where taxes are lower. I wish I could see the attachment to the earlier comments of the Tax Foundation, which apparently discuss the effects of this tax increase on Virginia's tax competitiveness versus other states. An earlier comment describes how a tax on millionaires led to an exodus of high-income people from another state, reducing that state's tax revenue, and leaving it worse off as a result of the tax increase. It would be a bad idea to raise tax rates if so many people or businesses leave the state that the state ends up with very little additional revenue, or even possibly less revenue as a result of the tax increase.

My name is Jessica Mott, of Arlington VA, representing the Virginia Grassroots Coalition. This statewide coalition is comprised of more than 55 grassroots groups and tens of thousands of voters. We ask you to please support a “fair share tax” by creating a new tax bracket for millionaires, through passage of HB979 (Watts), HB1074 (Hernandez), or HB188 (Convirs-Fowler), or a reconciled combination of these bills’ provisions. We share the concerns of many Virginia legislators about the significant cuts and expensive regulatory requirements at the federal level, and the need to ensure funds and access for all to health, food security, education, childcare, and other essential services in the upcoming state budget. We believe Virginia needs new sources of revenue for these increased budget requirements, prioritizing measures which make our tax system more progressive, i.e., imposing higher tax rates on individuals with high income and wealth, thus taking into account their ability to pay and maintaining the overall focus of the Governor on affordability. Increasing the income tax rate provides an effective and fair way to address this need. Currently, all income in excess of $17,000 is taxed by the state at the marginal rate of only 5.75 percent! Accordingly, we ask that you pass one of proposed fair share tax bills, or a reconciled combination of them. In view of our priority of promoting progressive tax measures, we support HB979 with its higher 10% rate for those with income above $1 million and the 8% bracket for those with income between $600,000 and $ 1 million. We also urge you to include HB979’s provision to exempt food and hygiene products from local sales taxes. We note that HB979 and HB188 specify an allocation for education, and in the case of HB188, also for childcare and housing. HB1074 supports a health insurance subsidy. We support these or alternatively, ensuring that the main budget directly accommodates these needs. Thank you for taking our views into consideration.

My attached written comments are meant to be neutral expert testimony on the economic competitiveness implications of HB 979.

Virginia desperately needs a more progressive and equitable tax code that ensures the wealthy pay the fair share. Currently, the top 1% pay the last of their earnings as a percentage of their income. As wealth disparity grows, and the Federal government withdraws support for critical services, the Commonwealth of Virginia should act immediately to ensure that our rural clinics, hospitals, schools, emergency response, and transportation infrastructure is fully funded. Our future depends on ensuring we invest in ourselves today.

I support HB979 for the millionaires' tax and elimination of grocery sales taxes. Fairfax County Public Schools is facing over a $100 million budget deficit for next year, and the proposed allocation reduces the strain on the General Fund without requiring a regressive sales tax. Currently, the tax would impact less than 0.5% of Virginians, and analysis on the similar HB188 for only the 10% bracket was expected to raise over $1 billion annually. A similar "Fair Share" amendment in Massachusetts from 2022 raised $5.7 billion, doubling forecasts and contributing 5% of the state budget. Furthermore, the number of millionaires in MA since then increased by 30%, dispelling concerns of a rich exodus. I believe this bill will significantly raise Virginians' quality of life and increase the affordability of the state.

As a Virginia resident and voter, I am writing to let you know that I strongly oppose HB243, HB 978, HB188, and HB 979. Virginians are already burdened with high taxes and high cost of living. These bills will only further punish those paying taxes in this state and will likely drive taxpayers, including those with very high incomes, to other states with lower tax burdens. Please reconsider. The prior administration left the state with a surplus. Increased taxes should not be needed to meet the needs of the state.

Virginia already has high taxes and higher cost of living and some people are already moving to West Virginia and states south of Virginia like North Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida because of it. If this bill passes that exodus could grow into a flood if taxes in Virginia go up to 8% or 10% from 5.75%, making it much more expensive to live in Virginia. If millionaires move out the burden of taxes fall on the rest of us that can't afford to move. Taxes should be fair and equal across the board the tax rate should be lowered for all of us,

This bill's 8% and 10% tax rates would result in Virginia having much higher tax rates than most neighboring states -- such as North Carolina (which has a 3.99% maximum tax rate), Kentucky (which has a 3.5% maximum tax rate) and West Virginia (which has a 4.82% maximum tax rate). If Virginia adopts this bill's radically higher tax rates, that would lead to significant numbers of high-income taxpayers leaving the state, and no longer paying taxes to Virginia. That could mean less money for Virginia. When Maryland raised taxes on millionaires in 2007, many moved out of state, resulting in Maryland raising less revenue as a result, according to the Tax Foundation: "The Comptroller of Maryland has reported that the number of 'millionaire' returns tumbled sharply between 2007 and 2008, a 30% drop in filers and 22% drop in declared income. Rather than income taxes from this group rising by $106 million, they fell by $257 million….One-in-eight millionaires who filed a Maryland tax return in 2007 filed no return in 2008….A Bank of America Merrill Lynch analysis of federal tax return data on people who migrated from one state to another found that Maryland lost $1 billion of its net tax base in 2008 by residents moving to other states." Some rich people can move across the border to neighboring states where there is no state income tax, like Tennessee, or where tax rates are lower, like North Carolina (3.99%), Kentucky (3.5%), and West Virginia (4.82%). If they are retirees, they can easily move to states where there is no state income tax, such as Florida.

I live in Southwestern Virginia and I stand firmly against all these Bills the Democrats are trying to pass, especially my 2nd Amendment rights. I am a law abiding citizen with a concealed weapons permit. I use to work for the Department Of Corrections. I have had a lot of firearms training. I am safe and respect others. These gun laws that are trying to be passed is tyrannical gun laws. I was given this right by my Forefathers, "The right to bear arms Shall Not Be INFRINGED"! It's the law of the land. Democrats are about going against our rights. I will never ever vote for one single Democrat until they go back to the Party of the 1980's and before. Now they are against American Patriots and values. I oppose all gun laws. I oppose all the taxes as well that the Democrats get rich from us poor people. Please reconsider taking people's rights because that will have big consequences at Election time. Sandford Fields

Virginia was in good shape, we had a surplus of money that Gov Youngkin gave back to the taxpayers. And NOW you want to raise taxes on everything. There are alot of us on a fixed income and can't afford the taxes. These taxes are no necessary unless it is putting money into your pockets. This needs to stop or we will vote you out, after we do a recall. You are not doing what is best for the taxpayers in Virginia. You are doing this for you and how much money it will put in your pockets. STOP THE RAISING OF ANY TAXES ON VIRGINIANS.

These proposed bills are a blatant attack on our 2nd amendment rights and personal liberties. They will do nothing to stop crime but as usual, restrict the law abiding responsible gun owners. Why don't you stop making it easier for criminals to walk our streets and at the same time try to restrict our ability to defend our families and ourselves??? You are allowed to be protected by armed security but what you're saying in these proposals is that we don't have the same right.

I oppose All of the above Gun Bills. I am not a criminal nor have I ever been one. Our Government can Not protect me my property, or my Family. I have a God given right to bear and own guns Also 2A rights. You work for ME ! You are supposed to represent ME ! Stop with All the Over reach . Let me tell you what you should be doing , You should be passing bills to benefit the American people like Health care, economy, Get rid of these taxes that benefit your needs !! Finish deporting these illegal immigrants you brought into this country !! Again No on Gun bills .

The 2nd amendment does not in any way shape or form all these changes constitutional. Every bill you are pushing through house is definition of infringement. Also the first amendment grants all US citizens the freedom of speech . As a Christian I am subject to hate speech from others and have no avenue of protection other than my 2 nd amendment rights !

I oppose ALL of the above gun bills. I am not a criminal never have been . Our Goverment can not protect me , my family or my property I have a God given right to bear arms also 2A rights .You work for ME !! You are suppose to represent ME ! Stop the over reach . Do something that benefits the American citizens , Healthcare, economy, get rid of All these taxes you have burdened the people with , Finish deporting illegal immigrates .

As a retired federal officer (Not ICE), I am concerned about a few things; the proposed magazine and firearms ban, leaving Virginia citizens unprotected against criminals who will not follow the laws, and the retired Federal, State and Local officers who DO NOT have the ability to purchase their duty firearm and 15 round magazines. As retired officers, most of us are still quietly acting as Sheepdogs, still watching over our neighbors and strangers. Not exempting retired officers from the magazine ban can be catastrophic, whether you realize it or not. While some state and local officers have the ability to purchase their duty firearm and 15 round mags, some municipalities and all Federal officers do NOT have this luxury, and it will create a disparity among those who can purchase and keep their 15 round magazines and those who cannot by either law or policy. The US Constitution does not regulate what firearms Americans can keep, with some exceptions; but it DOES permit US Citizens to keep & bear arms. Historically kept firearms have been recognized by the high courts as not illegal and have ruled in favor of this. Like many, I feel that this "gun grab" as it's called was rushed through too quickly without considering the retirees who have served this state with honor and dignity. I urge you to not just ban 15 round mags for our citizens, but especially for the retirees. The way the language is currently written, the 15 round ban will not affect officers who have the ability to purchase their duty firearms upon retirement, but would not apply to many others including all federal officers & agents. Not a good way to keep your voters; and could be considered biased by the high courts. We are all the same; we served and protected. Thank you.

I oppose all of these bills as they are against to 2nd Amendment. More importantly, do you really believe that criminals will follow these laws? No. They will continue to commit crimes and if necessary go out of state to acquire what they need. Law abiding patriots, when armed are the best deterrent to crime! I also assume that you folks will not have personal protection details and if you do they will not be allowed to carry the type of firearms you are trying to outlaw!

❌ Oppose HB 207 (Keys-Gamarra) HB 207 imposes additional firearm restrictions that burden lawful gun owners while doing nothing to address violent crime. Laws that target possession rather than criminal misuse undermine constitutional protections and divert attention from enforcing existing laws against violent offenders. ❌ Oppose HB 566 (McNamara) HB 566 expands government control over lawful firearm ownership without historical justification or evidence of effectiveness. The Second Amendment protects the right of ordinary citizens to keep and bear arms, and broad regulatory schemes like this fail constitutional scrutiny under the Supreme Court’s Bruen framework. ❌ Oppose HB 919 (Lopez) HB 919 penalizes lawful firearm possession and commerce rather than criminal behavior. Public safety is not enhanced by placing additional legal and financial barriers on responsible citizens, and this bill risks chilling the exercise of a fundamental constitutional right. ❌ Oppose HB 954 (Watts) HB 954 advances sweeping firearm restrictions that are unsupported by historical precedent. Under the Constitution, rights cannot be limited simply because lawmakers believe regulation is preferable—restrictions must be narrowly tailored and historically grounded, which this bill is not. ❌ Oppose HB 1008 (Tran) HB 1008 infringes on the rights of law-abiding Virginians by expanding firearm prohibitions beyond constitutional limits. Collective punishment and preemptive restrictions violate due process and ignore the Supreme Court’s clear instruction that firearm regulations must align with historical tradition. ❌ Oppose HB 1094 (Laufer) HB 1094 imposes excessive regulatory burdens that disproportionately impact responsible gun owners while failing to deter criminal violence. The Constitution does not allow rights to be conditioned on convenience, compliance costs, or bureaucratic discretion. ❌ Oppose HB 1362 (McNamara) HB 1362 further erodes the Second Amendment by restricting access to commonly owned firearms and lawful activities. Policies that treat constitutional rights as privileges undermine public trust and expose the Commonwealth to costly and unnecessary litigation. ❌ Oppose HB 1474 (O’Quinn) HB 1474 expands government authority over private firearm ownership in ways that conflict with constitutional protections and established legal precedent. Virginia should focus on punishing criminal misuse of firearms—not restricting the rights of citizens who obey the law.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094!!!

To All Involved, We the People DO NOT want all of the tyrannically oppressive bills you are considering to be passed. Especially the ones related to OUR second amendment rights. No where in the constitution is a state given the authority to restrict any of OUR rights and freedoms guaranteed under the constitution. To make any attempt to do so is dancing precariously close to the line of exercising DESPOTISM over the people. Which is exactly why the founding fathers ensured we had a bill of rights written and ratified. At least take some time to seriously think through the implications of any legislation you may want to consider. V/R Charles

What happened to the campaign promise of cost cutting, lower taxes and making life more affordable for citizens? Defending the bills in court will use taxpayers cash, court time ,labor..Raising taxes on items you don't like and stating costs will lowered is a lie..from the general assembly to the governors office..Honor your oath and correct your lies with truth..Vote no on gun bills..

Politicians system of tax , spend, waste, is a system created by them ..This has been around for years A corrupt system of power. A group think of nonsense..Where they can only see there side and are blinded to any common sense..Will not listen to anyone and if they seem interested it is just to look good in front of everyone..They pretend to listen.But there mind is made up already on there own plans. The liberal base who voted for them include guns owners..This should tell you they don't care about there voting bloc..They know this will end up in court ..Wasting tax payers money ..The courts time..And don't care about citizens in general. There campaign mantra was cut costs for citizens.But taxpayer cash will be used to defend there gun bills

I urge you to vote "NO" on all the above bills,. We are already taxed enough! I believe the new Governor pledged to make VA affordable and that would logically mean no more taxation!

Good morning, and thank you for the opportunity to speak. I’m here today to address why this proposed state tax on suppressors is unnecessary, economically harmful, and disconnected from public safety. At the federal level, lawmakers recently removed the $200 federal tax stamp that had long been attached to suppressors. That change recognized an important reality: suppressors are not criminal tools—they are safety devices. They reduce harmful noise, protect hearing, and lessen the impact on surrounding communities. Despite that federal shift, this proposal would move our state in the opposite direction by imposing a $500 state tax on the very same lawful item. Suppressors remain heavily regulated even without the federal tax. Purchasers are still subject to extensive background checks, fingerprinting, registration requirements, and approval processes through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Nothing about this bill improves oversight or accountability. It simply adds cost. That cost has real consequences. A $500 state tax will not deter criminals—because criminals do not acquire suppressors through lawful channels. What it will do is suppress economic activity inside this state. Consumers will purchase elsewhere, businesses will lose sales, and in-state manufacturers and dealers will be put at a competitive disadvantage. Lawful commerce will decline, while neighboring states benefit. This proposal effectively replaces a removed federal tax with a larger state-level penalty, undoing economic momentum rather than building on it. Any projected revenue must be weighed against reduced sales, lost jobs, and businesses choosing not to operate here at all. There is also a fairness issue. When the government stacks fees this high, it creates a system where lawful ownership is dictated by income. That is not public safety—it is a financial barrier imposed on compliance. Finally, this bill sets a troubling precedent. If the state can justify a $500 tax on suppressors today, it becomes easier to justify new taxes on other lawful equipment tomorrow. That kind of incremental policy creep erodes trust and punishes responsibility. Suppressors reduce noise. They protect hearing. They are already regulated. The federal government recognized this by removing its tax burden. This bill ignores that reality and replaces it with an even heavier one—at the expense of our state’s economy and law-abiding citizens. For those reasons, I urge you to oppose this proposal. Thank you for your time.

How did the authors of the bills such as a 500 dollar tax on suppressors,11 percent tax on ammo, create the numbers? Research ? Educated guess? Tax fairy? Similar to the dog walking tax...Nonsense tax meant to fund bloated programs...If as a delegate and if you have common sense you would vote against all of the anti gun bills..Citizens ,Lafave vs Fairfax county is a case of Fairfax county being sued in court by Lafave. Fairfax denied carry in parks.. The case had made its way to the supreme Court..Judge Roberts granted the writ on the shadow docket. Fairfax has until Feb 16 26 to answer ..If the case is accepted and plaintiff wins..This will affect other gun laws..

Adding a higher tax on firearms will make it so only the rich can afford them. This will not stop crime in any way or form.

I’m writing to let my concerns known on all of these laws that are being voted upon. We as law aboding citizens are the only ones that will be affected and obey these laws. You want to decrease the time criminals do for horrible crimes such as murder and rape, but make law abiding citizens (that have done nothing wrong) into criminals. We obey the laws (most i see as unconstitutional) and then you turn around and make those rights into crimes and punishments. “Assault Weapons” as you refer to them have been around since the 1940s. Everything i have obtained, i did so legally. Now you want to make them illegal, and even go as far as to punish me for doing so. Why do we play these ignorant games. Legal one day, illegal another! We have right under the 2nd Amendment. How does doing any of this make people “safe”? Criminals will use whatever they do to commit crimes, cause that is their very nature. Disarm the public and allow criminals to take advantage of your laws. We will be less safe. How does charging $500 tax on suppressors make anyone safe? You are just mad they did away with the tax. We will still purchase these items, but you just punish us for doing so. You do nothing to make us safe , and you tax us on more than just firearms! You take, and take and take, yet provide nothing more! What happened to running on affordability? Taxes on dog grooming, home repairs, vehicle repairs, and so much more. Increase our taxes when our state was doing so well that we had a surplus if 2.2 billion dollars. You count on people being ignorant, but by doing that you educate them. I hope you can put you pride and egos aside, and realize we are starting to do better. All you will do is hurt your citizens with these numerous amount of laws and taxes. As politicians you are called upon to make our lives better. You cant make us safer by what you propose. You will only destroy our trust and our economy. We are not ignorant people that need to be taken care of. We need you to get out if our way and let us live our lives and protect ourselves. One last thing. Europe did this to their population and knife crimes skyrocketed. Everyone of you know this. Do the right thing and empower us to live our lives. Don't put more laws and taxes on us. There is more to Virginia than Richmond. As a veteran i have taken the same oath. I still honor that oath, as i hope you all do.

I’m writing to let my concerns known on all of these laws that are being voted upon. We as law aboding citizens are the only ones that will be affected and obey these laws. You want to decrease the time criminals do for horrible crimes such as murder and rape, but make law abiding citizens (that have done nothing wrong) into criminals. We obey the laws (most i see as unconstitutional) and then you turn around and make those rights into crimes and punishments. “Assault Weapons” as you refer to them have been around since the 1940s. Everything i have obtained, i did so legally. Now you want to make them illegal, and even go as far as to punish me for doing so. Why do we play these ignorant games. Legal one day, illegal another! We have right under the 2nd Amendment. How does doing any of this make people “safe”? Criminals will use whatever they do to commit crimes, cause that is their very nature. Disarm the public and allow criminals to take advantage of your laws. We will be less safe. How does charging $500 tax on suppressors make anyone safe? You are just mad they did away with the tax. We will still purchase these items, but you just punish us for doing so. You do nothing to make us safe , and you tax us on more than just firearms! You take, and take and take, yet provide nothing more! What happened to running on affordability? Taxes on dog grooming, home repairs, vehicle repairs, and so much more. Increase our taxes when our state was doing so well that we had a surplus if 2.2 billion dollars. You count on people being ignorant, but by doing that you educate them. I hope you can put you pride and egos aside, and realize we are starting to do better. All you will do is hurt your citizens with these numerous amount of laws and taxes. As politicians you are called upon to make our lives better. You cant make us safer by what you propose. You will only destroy our trust and our economy. We are not ignorant people that need to be taken care of. We need you to get out if our way and let us live our lives and protect ourselves. One last thing. Europe did this to their population and knife crimes skyrocketed. Everyone of you know this. Do the right thing and empower us to live our lives. Don't put more laws and taxes on us. There is more to Virginia than Richmond. As a veteran i have taken the same oath. I still honor that oath, as i hope you all do.

Do not vote for these bills

I oppose any and all legislation that goes against the second amendment. The 2nd amendment is a right not a privilege that can be taken away period . How about dealing with the criminals and being harder on them like reinstating the death penalty!

I am opposed to ANY law that limits my ability to carry, use, purchase, or own firearms. This includes the right to carry in public places or my vehicle, and it includes the right to defend myself. I am totally and completely opposed to ANY leftist agenda, and I am informing you, whoever you are, that there is a lot of anger out here over what's going on in our state, and indeed, in our nation and our world. It's become apparent that, far from what we voted for, Pres. Trump will continue to knuckle under to the left. Therefore, we shall have to fight for our rights in our state. Be warned: not everyone will knuckle under! There are some of us patriots left!

The recent passage of HB217 and related gun control measures in the Virginia House, including bans on so-called "assault firearms" and large-capacity magazines, represents a direct assault on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Virginians. These laws, which criminalize the sale, manufacture, and transfer of commonly owned firearms, ignore the Constitution's clear protections and the Founding Fathers' intent. The Second Amendment states: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." James Madison, the amendment's primary drafter, emphasized in Federalist No. 46 that an armed citizenry serves as a bulwark against tyranny, arguing that the federal government would be restrained by "the advantage of being armed which the Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation." Similarly, Thomas Jefferson wrote in a 1787 letter to William Stephens Smith that "what country can preserve its liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms." The Founders viewed the right to bear arms as essential for self-defense, hunting, and resisting oppression—not limited to outdated muskets, but evolving with technology. Supreme Court precedents affirm this. In District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), the Court held that the Second Amendment protects an individual's right to possess firearms for lawful purposes, including self-defense, and struck down D.C.'s handgun ban. Justice Scalia noted that it safeguards "arms in common use at the time," which today includes semi-automatic rifles like those targeted by HB217. McDonald v. Chicago (2010) extended this to the states via the Fourteenth Amendment. Most recently, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022) invalidated restrictive carry laws, requiring gun regulations to align with historical traditions—something Virginia's broad bans fail to do, as they prohibit weapons millions of Americans own without incident. These measures won't reduce crime—criminals ignore laws—but they disarm the innocent. Virginia's Founders, like Patrick Henry, warned against disarming the people: "Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect everyone who approaches that jewel." Lawmakers should repeal these unconstitutional infringements and uphold our heritage of freedom.

You have all betrayed your constituents with all of these new laws stripping our constitutional rights. Trying to make it so hard to own, carry, and purchase guns and ammunition that people just give up or cant afford it. Expansion of the Red Flag laws to people who are in no way qualified to make that decision to strip someone of their constitution rights. Giving that option especially to Spouses like no one would ever use that to satisfy a grudge against an ex. Also creating a system that punishes people for seeking help with medical counselors or lose their constitutional rights. The tax on ammunition alone is an obvious attempt to make it even harder for people to afford to practice with their firearms which is required for proficiency and price people out of purchasing them to begin with. The tax on suppressor when the fed stamp has been removed is just more obvious money grabbing and trying to make it restricted by putting a "poll tax" on it just like ammunition. Trying to outlaw the sale of commononly used firearms like AKs and ARs even though the Supreme Court has already ruled that the second amendment protects guns in common use. This is the first time ever I have been absolutely ashamed to be a Virginian in my entire life. You have all sold out the people and every one of you should lose your seat if you vote for these bills. Why do you need all these new taxes when you were handed a several billion dollar surplus at the end of last year? Answer is its not about the money, its about taking away guns. Try staying out of our wallets, homes, and lives for a change. How about fulfilling the promise of affordability that was made? How about reducing taxes instead of creating new ones? How about protecting the freedom of Virginians instead of trying to control us so you can use us like little cash shelters. Disgusting behavior and you should all be ashamed.

I am 41 years old and despite never being in the military, being exposed to excessively loud noises throughout my life, and having no genetic preconditions for hearing loss, I have tinnitus. It started to creep up within the first year I began training with a pistol for the purpose of self-defense after being jumped and attacked no less than 5 times in the 2 years prior to buying that pistol. When I went to the range, I wore ear plugs AND ear muffs (the latter costing nearly $300 in an attempt to get the best of the best) and STILL I realized quickly that, despite being in a quiet room, I was hearing loud ringing. This combination is capable of reducing the concussive noise of a gunshot only minimally. My doctor says there's really no possible other source other than my exposure to firearms. My exposure that was only a tiny fraction of what soldiers are subjected to, what shooting sports enthusiasts are subjected to, and so forth. Had I been able to afford a suppressor and $200 NFA tax at the time, I would have been able to reduce the decibel output of my pistol by up to 35 dB. Combine that with my hearing protection, and I would have NEVER come to have tinnitus from shooting sports AND everyone else in the range with me would have been subjected to far less noise as well. A suppressor should be easily accessible, taxed only at the prevailing consumer goods sales tax, and require no government approval so that there are no barriers to protecting the hearing of a shooter and those around them while exercising one's 2nd amendment rights. It seems as if a $500 tax on suppressors is a retaliatory action not grounded in any kind of premise of safety or health. It would limit once again access to what is fundamentally a hearing protection device to wealthy VA residents. Is this the message Democrats want to send: "We want guns to be as loud as possible and if you are keen to be respectful to your own hearing and others, we will force you to pay $500!" That doesn't land well with anyone. It fundamentally makes no sense, especially since in Europe, South Africa, and other parts of the world you can simply walk into a store, buy a suppressor (you're encouraged to do so), and walk out in as much time as it takes to drink a cup of coffee. This tax obviously solves nothing, will not raise revenue fairly and justly, and will likely cost VA more to defend than it rakes in as suppressors are already commonly $1,000 or more. Anti-2A laws do not reduce crime in the same way anti-reproductive rights laws do not reduce abortions... in both instances the result is worse. Stop infringing on Constitutional rights and start focusing on what matters.

I strongly support a more progressive and fair tax system. As the Federal government guts services, Virginia needs new sources of revenue if we want to maintain our school lunch programs, rural hospitals, green infrastructure investment, and effective emergency response programs. Currently our taxes cap out at $17,000, putting the burden on those who can least afford to pay. I urge you to invest in Virginia, and pass the Fair Share Tax reforms.

I am skeptical of HB 1074. Virginia taxes are already too high, in general: Virginia has a 5.75% top income tax rate, compared to the 3.99% top income tax rate in North Carolina. Yet this bill would raise taxes even higher for some households, giving Virginia a top tax rate of 7.75%, much higher than most states in this country. 7.75% is substantially higher than the rates in most neighboring states, such as Kentucky (which has a top rate of 3.5%), Tennessee (which has no state income tax at all), and West Virginia (which has a top rate of 4.82%). Virginia is richer than those states and has a bigger tax base, so Virginia should be able to get by with lower tax rates than most of its neighbors, such as North Carolina. Yet under this bill, the top rate in Virginia would be almost twice as high as in North Carolina. An earlier comment describes how a tax on millionaires led to an exodus of high-income people from another state, reducing that state's tax revenue, and leaving it worse off as a result of the tax increase. This bill would not raise taxes as high as HB 188 or HB 979, but it could still have some unanticipated consequences, resulting in some high-income people leaving Virginia.

My name is Jessica Mott, of Arlington VA, representing the Virginia Grassroots Coalition. This statewide coalition is comprised of more than 55 grassroots groups and tens of thousands of voters. We ask you to please support a “fair share tax” by creating a new tax bracket for millionaires, through passage of HB979 (Watts), HB1074 (Hernandez), or HB188 (Convirs-Fowler), or a reconciled combination of these bills’ provisions. We share the concerns of many Virginia legislators about the significant cuts and expensive regulatory requirements at the federal level, and the need to ensure funds and access for all to health, food security, education, childcare, and other essential services in the upcoming state budget. We believe Virginia needs new sources of revenue for these increased budget requirements, prioritizing measures which make our tax system more progressive, i.e., imposing higher tax rates on individuals with high income and wealth, thus taking into account their ability to pay and maintaining the overall focus of the Governor on affordability. Increasing the income tax rate provides an effective and fair way to address this need. Currently, all income in excess of $17,000 is taxed by the state at the marginal rate of only 5.75 percent! Accordingly, we ask that you pass one of proposed fair share tax bills, or a reconciled combination of them. In view of our priority of promoting progressive tax measures, we support HB979 with its higher 10% rate for those with income above $1 million and the 8% bracket for those with income between $600,000 and $ 1 million. We also urge you to include HB979’s provision to exempt food and hygiene products from local sales taxes. We note that HB979 and HB188 specify an allocation for education, and in the case of HB188, also for childcare and housing. HB1074 supports a health insurance subsidy. We support these or alternatively, ensuring that the main budget directly accommodates these needs. Thank you for taking our views into consideration.

This bill's 7.75% tax rate would result in Virginia having much higher tax rates than most neighboring states -- such as North Carolina (which has a 3.99% maximum tax rate), Kentucky (which has a 3.5% maximum tax rate) and West Virginia (which has a 4.82% maximum tax rate). Higher tax rates could lead to high-income taxpayers leaving the state, and no longer paying taxes to Virginia. That could mean less tax revenue for Virginia. When Maryland raised taxes on millionaires in 2007, many moved out of state, resulting in Maryland raising less revenue as a result, according to the Tax Foundation: "The Comptroller of Maryland has reported that the number of 'millionaire' returns tumbled sharply between 2007 and 2008, a 30% drop in filers and 22% drop in declared income. Rather than income taxes from this group rising by $106 million, they fell by $257 million….One-in-eight millionaires who filed a Maryland tax return in 2007 filed no return in 2008….A Bank of America Merrill Lynch analysis of federal tax return data on people who migrated from one state to another found that Maryland lost $1 billion of its net tax base in 2008 by residents moving to other states." Some rich people can move across the border to neighboring states where there is no state income tax, like Tennessee, or where tax rates are lower, like North Carolina (3.99%), Kentucky (3.5%), and West Virginia (4.82%). If they are retirees, they can easily move to states where there is no state income tax, such as Florida.

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by.

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by. "

I am against HB1094 and HB 207.

I am writing to oppose the outrageous bills being discussed to limit/restrict Virginians Constitutional rights to keep and bear arms. Nonsensical limitations on weapons type and magazine capacity will have zero impact in reducing violent crime in our State. That I can state with authority having spent 30 years in law enforcement. Taxing firearms and ammunition only prevents our poorest residents from personal Defence and could be viewed as racist by many. Respectfully request that you come to your senses and focus on areas that will benefit and not harm citizens of the Commonwealth.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I live in Southwestern Virginia and I stand firmly against all these Bills the Democrats are trying to pass, especially my 2nd Amendment rights. I am a law abiding citizen with a concealed weapons permit. I use to work for the Department Of Corrections. I have had a lot of firearms training. I am safe and respect others. These gun laws that are trying to be passed is tyrannical gun laws. I was given this right by my Forefathers, "The right to bear arms Shall Not Be INFRINGED"! It's the law of the land. Democrats are about going against our rights. I will never ever vote for one single Democrat until they go back to the Party of the 1980's and before. Now they are against American Patriots and values. I oppose all gun laws. I oppose all the taxes as well that the Democrats get rich from us poor people. Please reconsider taking people's rights because that will have big consequences at Election time. Sandford Fields

Dear Elected Representatives, It is very clear to me that the Right to Keep and Bear Arms in the Commonwealth in Virginia is now considered a disfavored right. The bills in question will not deter a single criminal nor prevent a single crime, but will punish honest, law-abiding citizens for exercising their rights. May we expect an 11% tax or a $500 fee for free speech, freedom of assembly, or worshipping as we please? I think not. We already have some 32,000 gun laws in this country and the problem is not more regulation but the lack of enforcement of those existing laws. The Second Amendment protects a right to keep and carry firearms, not a privilege, not a perk, not a whim. It is as integral to our citizenship as speaking freely, petitioning our government for grievances, and worshipping and living where we like. It is a brake on tyranny, and the fact that some people abuse that right does not nullify that right, and those that do ought to be punished. The people have a right to defend themselves wherever they happen to be, to deliberately interfere with that right puts the people in danger, and 100 million gun owners are not a "vocal minority." The measures proposed, in my view, would violate the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution, increase the risk to the general public (the Washington Post found that 86% of mass shootings between 2009-2016 occurred in “gun-free” zones), and signal that the ownership of firearms is discouraged. Perhaps the latter is the real goal, that despite volumes of data indicating that gun ownership tends to prevent crime, certain dogma holds otherwise, but again, dogma should not and cannot trump a Constitutional right.

My household of 4 (who are all of voting age) oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

OPPOSED to these bills!!!

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094, these bills single out specific Virginian’s by targeting them with punitive tax and is a further attack on our 2nd Amendment right.

I oppose bills HB207, HB919, and HB1094. Americans have a God given right, recognized in the Constitution of the United Sates of America and affirmed by the Supreme Court, to possess, utilize, and train with firearms and other related equipment. Taxing ammunition, firearm sales, and firearm related sales punishes every citizen of Virginia for exercising a RIGHT. Furthermore, taxing these items punishes most those most in need of protection - the average working class man or woman. People who work long hours for average or below average wages often have the most need for an affordable means to protect themselves and their families. These bills add to the financial burden of good people, in addition to insulting their heritage as Virginians. These three bills are poor policy on every level. The people of this state deserve better.

I am a Virginia resident who is deeply concerned by HB207, HB919, and HB1094. These bills do not simply raise revenue. They send a clear message that law abiding citizens who exercise a constitutional right are an acceptable target for excessive taxation. HB207’s $500 suppressor tax feels especially punitive. Many suppressors cost far less than the tax itself. For ordinary Virginians like me, this is not a fee. It is a wall. Suppressors are not tools of crime. They do not silence firearms. They reduce noise to safer levels that help prevent permanent hearing damage and reduce disturbance to neighbors. Hunters, sport shooters, and rural families benefit from this every day. The last known criminal misuse of a legally owned suppressor in Virginia occurred years ago, yet this bill treats every responsible owner as a problem to be taxed out of existence. This tax will not stop criminals. It will only ensure that working class Virginians cannot afford to comply with the law. HB919 and HB1094 are equally troubling. An 11 percent excise tax on firearms and ammunition is a direct financial burden on the exercise of a civil right. These costs will not be absorbed by manufacturers. They will be passed on to people like me. If the state would never consider taxing books or newspapers to fund government programs, it should not tax the tools required to exercise the Second Amendment. Owning a firearm is not a sin. For many Virginians, it is about self defense, family safety, hunting traditions, and personal responsibility. From a budget standpoint, these bills are short sighted. Higher prices will push sales out of Virginia and hurt local businesses. Promised revenue will shrink while trust in the fairness of our tax system erodes. When the state selectively taxes constitutional rights, it creates resentment and division instead of stability. I ask this committee to consider who truly bears the cost of these bills. It is not criminals. It is not wealthy special interests. It is regular Virginians who follow the law, care about safety, and simply want to be left alone to live their lives responsibly. Please reject HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

I oppose any bills that go against the constitution for the right to bear arms. This is the people’s only way against tyranny from the opposing party.

I oppose HB207, HB919, HB1094.

I understand that some members of the board believe these measures are necessary; however, I am struggling to see how the two proposals in question provide any tangible benefit to the Commonwealth. From my perspective, they appear primarily to restrict lawful access and impose additional financial burdens on responsible, law-abiding firearm owners exercising their constitutionally protected Second Amendment rights. In particular, I would appreciate clarification on how the proposed $500 tax on suppressors serves the public interest. It is difficult to understand how this measure accomplishes anything beyond penalizing individuals who are otherwise complying with existing laws. I respectfully ask what public safety or policy objective this tax is intended to achieve. I believe this issue deserves thoughtful discussion, and I hope policymakers will carefully consider how these proposals impact responsible citizens across the Commonwealth. -Sic Semper Tyranni—

I understand that some members of the board believe these measures are necessary; however, I am struggling to see how the two proposals in question provide any tangible benefit to the Commonwealth. From my perspective, they appear primarily to restrict lawful access and impose additional financial burdens on responsible, law-abiding firearm owners exercising their constitutionally protected Second Amendment rights. In particular, I would appreciate clarification on how the proposed $500 tax on suppressors serves the public interest. It is difficult to understand how this measure accomplishes anything beyond penalizing individuals who are otherwise complying with existing laws. I respectfully ask what public safety or policy objective this tax is intended to achieve. I believe this issue deserves thoughtful discussion, and I hope policymakers will carefully consider how these proposals impact responsible citizens across the Commonwealth. -Sic Semper Tyrannis-

Vote NO on bills 207, 919, and 1094. Further, do not allow bill 954 to pass. Thank you K. P. Chess

Comment is in reference to HB919 and HB1094. These bills unfairly single out firearms and ammunition and impose an undue burden on firearms owners and users. An 11% tax per bill which aggregates to a 22% excise tax on the end consumer for new firearms (already on top of sales and other taxes) since one can reasonably assume any taxes on the manufacturer and/or retail seller will be passed on to the consumer not only places an undue financial barrier to those who wish to lawfully exercise their rights as guaranteed in both the U.S. Constitution and the Commonwealth of Virginia Constitution, the ammunition tax itself will discourage the purchase of needed live ammunition with which to train, making the firearms owner *less* safe. Gun owners who train often are far safer with their firearms than those who train infrequently (or not at all), much like drivers who safely practice their skills in actual traffic conditions are overall safer drivers than those who rarely drive. It will also have the effect of encouraging ammunition "hoarding" which I believe is contrary to the intent of the bill.

House bills 207, 919, and 1094 impose taxes on the exercise of a constitutional right. In the case of 207, it imposes a significant burden on a health saving device that reduces hearing damage for all lawful uses of arms. Individuals are safer with guns when they can practice regularly. Regular practice is safer with the use of a suppressor as it reduces permanent hearing damage. Individuals across Virginia are struggling with affordability. Do not impose a modern poll tax on a constitutional right. I and many of my liberal friends are gun owners who practice regularly and will be immediately impacted by these laws. These bills are not in the best interests of Virginians.

I oppose these bills.

NO MORE TAXES!! Stop discriminating against my poor community and people! This is a Poll Tax targeted against my people and we will NOT support Democrats in their effort to punish the poor even more.

Dear Sir/Madam, I am against (HB 207) the $500 Tax Scheme on Suppressors, which helps with hearing and being kind to others' hearing. I, also, fought against the Federal $200 Tax Scheme, which adds extra burdens on persons who wish to protect their hearing better, while exercising their 2nd Amendment and it makes it harder for people who may be on lower or fixed incomes, are disabled, elderly and the like, from gaining the benefits of the use of suppressors. Turning a Right into a Poll Tax, which my father fought, regarding voting. This is unacceptable and, also, almost a "Sin Tax." I am against (HB 919 and 1094) that would add an 11% on a Right, essentially as a "Sin Tax" against one(s) wishing to exercise their 2nd Amendment Right. This would, also, hurt those on fixed incomes (the elderly, disabled, etc.) and who make less money, especially, harder to be able to exercise their 2nd Amendment Constitutional Rights. These taxes are both unacceptable and further taxation on a Right. Thank you for your time.

I oppose these bills because of the overall hardship for costs on the consumer. My understanding was that agenda of incoming democrats were to increase safety by reducing the number of ARs there were in the public. This does not increase safety but simply makes training and purchasing unaffordable, widen the gap between the wealthy and middle class, increasing noise pollution for unaffordable suppressors for hunting. With our current political climate, hate crimes and abuses made by federal law enforcement , we should impede law abiding citizens from simply making purchases. I would ask to kill these tax bills or at minimum reduce them all to a more reasonable number than 11 percent and a 500 dollar tax stamp on top of increased prices due to tariffs.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

**Opposition to HB 207** **1. Privacy Violations** HB 207 mandates unnecessary surveillance and governmental interference in personal activities, especially in education and healthcare. This encroaches on privacy rights and contradicts Virginia’s commitment to protecting individual autonomy. **2. Discriminatory Impact** The bill disproportionately affects marginalized communities, particularly low-income families and communities of color. Rather than addressing systemic inequalities, it exacerbates them by limiting access to essential services and opportunities. **3. Ineffective Overreach** The bill’s enforcement mechanisms are inefficient and redundant. There’s no evidence that this broad intervention would meaningfully address the issues it targets. It would divert resources from more effective solutions. **Opposition to HB 919** **1. Healthcare Autonomy Undermined** HB 919 restricts individuals' rights to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By limiting access to reproductive health services, the bill infringes on the right to choose one’s medical provider and treatment, interfering with essential care. **2. Excessive Government Interference** This bill increases state control over private healthcare decisions, undermining medical professionals' expertise and judgment. It creates legal risks for healthcare providers and risks delays and confusion in delivering care. **3. Public Health Risks** By restricting access to essential healthcare services, particularly reproductive health care, HB 919 could lead to poor health outcomes. It may drive individuals to unsafe alternatives, jeopardizing public health, especially in maternal care. **Opposition to HB 1094** **1. Worker Rights Erosion** HB 1094 weakens protections for workers by expanding employer power and creating loopholes in labor laws. This bill prioritizes corporate interests over workers' rights, potentially exploiting vulnerable employees. **2. Economic Inequity** The bill disproportionately harms lower-income workers who have less leverage to negotiate fair terms. It undermines efforts to create a more equitable workforce, worsening economic inequality in Virginia. **3. Constitutional Concerns** HB 1094 raises serious constitutional issues, particularly regarding workers’ rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining. It could violate fundamental rights and reduce access to due process for workers.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094. All three bills would serve to unduly burden law-abiding Virginians from exercising their lawful right to keep and bear arms. In a time of high inflation and increased cost of living, it is profoundly unjust to levy these additional high costs onto ordinary Virginians. Further, these tax measure would disproportionately impact those of lower household income -- Virginians of all economic statuses are entitled to the rights and liberties under the Constitutions of the United States and Virginia. This legislature should not seek to economically burden these rights further.

Please oppose HB919 and HB1094. These bills promote an excessive, regressive tax that places an unreasonable burden on citizens seeking to exercise fundamental civil rights. It is a throwback to the days of segration and oppressive laws targeting specific peoples, and unworthy of our great Commonwealth.

HB919 and HB1094 This tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun should not be in question. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. And by allowing legitimate and law-abiding citizens the right to practice safely only adds to the safety of this state. For instance, no one wants to talk about the lawful and responsible use of a firearm protecting self, family, and others. Read some statistics that are suppressed by media outlets and biased reporting; “A recent study by John Lott and Carlisle Moody "Do Armed Civilians Stop Active Shooters More Effectively Than Uniformed Police"? The study took place from 2014 to 2022, armed civilians not only stopped more active shooter incidents than police, but they also saved more lives and made fewer mistakes. Law enforcement is rarely on site when violence occurs, most often they are reactive and that takes time...time you may not have.” “Crime Research.com suggests that there are potentially millions of defensive gun uses annually, ranging from 760,000 to 3.6 million, with an average around 2 million. However, some data suggests a much lower number, with only 70,000 defensive gun uses per year being reported by the government. Other research suggests that between 1.67 and 2.8 million defensive uses occur each year, with approximately 50 million total incidents over time. Here's a more detailed look: Lott's Estimates: Lott's study estimates a range of 760,000 to 3.6 million defensive gun uses per year, suggesting that there are more defensive gun uses than murders in the United States. Government Data: The government reports approximately 70,000 defensive gun uses per year, making them much rarer events. Extrapolated Data: Extrapolating data from surveys, some studies estimate that between 1.67 and 2.8 million defensive gun uses occur annually.” Virginia Citizens Defense League reports that 2.5 million Defensive Uses Each Year. Point being, legal and law-abiding gun ownership in this state protect lives. Allow these citizens the right to practice in order to limit unnecessary collateral damage by legislative suppression of our rights.

The proposed taxes in HB207, imposing a $500 fee on suppressors, and in HB919 and HB1094, levying an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition, represent a blatant infringement on the Second Amendment rights of Virginia citizens. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and individual, as in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), extending protections against state overreach. These bills effectively create financial barriers to exercising this constitutional right, akin to poll taxes that were struck down for suppressing voting rights in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966). By targeting tools essential for self-defense, hunting, and hearing protection—like suppressors that mitigate noise-induced hearing loss—these measures disproportionately burden law-abiding Virginians, punishing them for responsibly engaging in protected activities while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore such laws. Virginia’s lawmakers should reject this unconstitutional scheme that erodes federal protections and sets a dangerous precedent for taxing other enumerated rights. Beyond their unconstitutionality, these taxes are profoundly unfair and detrimental to Virginia’s citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities and stifling personal freedoms in a state already plagued by overregulation. An 11% hike on guns and ammo would hit low-income families hardest, making self-defense unaffordable for those in high-crime areas, while the $500 suppressor tax penalizes responsible gun owners seeking safer shooting practices without benefiting public safety. This revenue grab ignores Virginia’s history of fiscal mismanagement, diverting funds from real priorities like education and infrastructure to fund bloated government programs, all while infringing on the core American value of individual liberty. Lawmakers must oppose these bills to protect hardworking Virginians from discriminatory taxation that favors elite anti-gun agendas over the rights and wallets of everyday citizens, ensuring the Commonwealth doesn’t devolve into a nanny state that prioritizes control over freedom. Respectfully Submitted by a Law Abiding Concerned American Citizen and Resident of Virginia

I am writing as a Virginia resident to strongly request that the proposed bills HB1094, HB919, and HB207 are not voted on and do not pass through committee. Suppressor taxes and firearms related excise taxes are a tax on rights protected by the 2nd Amendment of the US Constitution. We are already taxed on these items through sales tax and via a Federal excise tax from the Pittman-Robertson Act. These proposed bills will not address current social issues in VA (e.g., violent crime). Additionally, VA is already becoming unaffordable to live; therefore, proposing any new tax, to include firearms related taxes, decreases affordability for everyday citizens. Next, Virginians deserve policy solutions that target criminals, not responsible firearm owners. These proposed bills make it harder for low income citizens to exercise the rights as defined by the 2nd Amendment. VA already has a surplus of revenue, why do we need more taxes? We are already taxed enough in VA. If the VA Legislature is trying to decrease crime and gun related issues, then we should go after the core of the issues, i.e., mental health treatment, decrease drug trafficking, help with homeless, etc. These proposed bills do not fund any of these issues. At least the revenue from the Pittman-Robertson Act benefits everyone that use our public lands. The revenue from these bills will go into the "General Fund" to be used at the VA Legislature's will. Regardless, a tax on a right limits VA citizens from exercising that right. Please oppose all anti gun legislation and prevent these bills from moving forward out of committee.

As a statesman of Virginia, and citizen of the Constitutional Republic of the United States of America, I strongly oppose these usurpations and violations of our inalienable rights and liberty, that are in the form of bills such as HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

I proposed bills HB207,HB919 and HB1094

I rise in opposition to HB207, HB919, and HB1094 because these bills do not promote safety—they punish Virginians for exercising a constitutional right. By imposing excessive taxes on firearms, ammunition, and suppressors, the state is effectively placing a financial barrier on the Second Amendment. Rights guaranteed by the Constitution are not privileges to be taxed into submission. These proposals disproportionately impact law-abiding citizens, including rural residents, minorities, and lower-income individuals who rely on firearms for lawful self-defense. Wealthier individuals will still be able to afford these costs, while others are priced out of a fundamental right. That is neither equitable nor just. The Constitution does not allow the government to discourage the exercise of a protected right through targeted taxation. We do not impose special taxes on free speech, religious practice, or voting—and we should not do so here. For these reasons, I strongly urge you to reject these bills.

Dear General Assembly Members; HB207, HB919, and HB1094 are unnecessary and retaliatory in nature, will have a negative impact on large and small Virginia businesses, and will impose undo hardships for many. These bills clearly target the 423,000+ law-abiding Virginia firearm owners and countless businesses reliant on the industry as their primary source of income. With the $200 NFA tax lifted, a $500 suppressor tax and 11% sales tax on firearms and ammunition are retaliatory and serve no other purpose than to target and financially burden Virginian firearm owners, especially those at an economic disadvantage, which is an egregious disservice to low-income earners. The General Assembly should instead pursue common sense and bipartisan legislation aimed at the affordability that was promised its citizens. HB207, HB919, and HB1094 are insults to good people with good intentions seeking a good life, especially when we closed 2025 with a general fund revenue surplus of $2.7B dollars. I oppose all these bills and hold you accountable to stay true to your sworn oath of office and Constitution of Virginia by opposing HB217, HB919, and HB1094. The governing body is in place to serve The People, not limit their well being. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I oppose HB 207, HB 919 and HB 1094

Good morning, I am writing to oppose proposed bills HB207, HB919, and HB1094. I am against these bills on the basis of their effect on U.S. and Virginia citizens' right to self defense and bearing arms; the bills' insubordination with respect to the U.S. Constitution and Bill Of Rights; and the bills' net effects of disenfranchising the poor and middle class by making the costs of owning, maintaining, and properly training on firearms prohibitive. These bills set a dangerous precedent of illegally restricting rights through legislative smoke shields in order to advance the disarmament of the U.S. citizen and the Virginia citizen. I urge the Virginia legislature to oppose these measures and vote 'no' on HB207, HB919, HB1094, and any subsequent measures like them. Thank you. Very Respectfully, Lara Abila

I oppose HB207;HB919,HB1094

Good morning, I wanted to provide a few comments for three of the bills before the council today. To begin with, HB207. As a lifelong hunter and shooter, the recent improvements in accessibility for the hearing protection devices known as suppressors has been a real boon. Previously--particularly during hunting season, when I have to leave my ears uncovered to properly listen to my surroundings--I would sustain real, measurable hearing damage with every shot. Now that I have been able to purchase a suppressor, this is no longer the case. The recent reduction of the Federal tax stamp down to $0 has now made this accessible to just about anyone, as it has removed a major roadblock to acquiring these medically recommended (the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) has endorsed their use) devices. Reinstalling and more than doubling this tax at the state level would not just be an imposition, it is one that would primarily fall upon those less fortunate and thus less able to bear this needless tax. Having access to basic technology to preserve one's health and hearing should not depend upon one's financial ability to pay a completely arbitrary tax, with no sound purpose. Suppressors, after all, do not fully silence weapons, they barely reduce the decibels of most common firearms to a hearing safe level, and are still quite loud--often as loud as a jackhammer. This makes them distinctly unsuited in aiding crimes and shootings in the ways commonly imagined by those unfamiliar with them. HB919 and 1094 are related, so I will comment on them together. These pieces of legislation are a mistake for the same reason as the above. There is already an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition (and archery equipment) at the Federal level, which is used to more squarely target the upkeep of conservation, wildlife management and wild areas upon those who use said resources. Tacking on another tax would begin to make regular training and shooting unreachable for a whole class of hunters and shooters, and that class would, once again, be those less fortunate. This could potentially have even more unintended downstream effects, as less well-practiced and trained gun owners will likely be less safe with their firearms. Taking the money raised through this tax and shunting it into some sort of Gun Violence Prevention office, which will likely be used to do nothing more than recommend the further criminalization on law-abiding gun owners, is insult to injury. The bills have no chance at making Virginia more safe, have the potential to decrease the safety of Virginia shooters by making training more expensive, and will further erode gun owners' trust in government by funding an office to target them specifically. I urge an emphatic no vote on all three bills. Thank you for your time, David

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. The proposed taxes in HB207, imposing a $500 fee on suppressors, and in HB919 and HB1094, levying an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition, represent a blatant infringement on the Second Amendment rights of Virginia citizens. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and individual, as in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), extending protections against state overreach. These bills effectively create financial barriers to exercising this constitutional right, akin to poll taxes that were struck down for suppressing voting rights in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966). By targeting tools essential for self-defense, hunting, and hearing protection—like suppressors that mitigate noise-induced hearing loss—these measures disproportionately burden law-abiding Virginians, punishing them for responsibly engaging in protected activities while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore such laws. Virginia’s lawmakers should reject this unconstitutional scheme that erodes federal protections and sets a dangerous precedent for taxing other enumerated rights. Beyond their unconstitutionality, these taxes are profoundly unfair and detrimental to Virginia’s citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities and stifling personal freedoms in a state already plagued by overregulation. An 11% hike on guns and ammo would hit low-income families hardest, making self-defense unaffordable for those in high-crime areas, while the $500 suppressor tax penalizes responsible gun owners seeking safer shooting practices without benefiting public safety. This revenue grab ignores Virginia’s history of fiscal mismanagement, diverting funds from real priorities like education and infrastructure to fund bloated government programs, all while infringing on the core American value of individual liberty. Lawmakers must oppose these bills to protect hardworking Virginians from discriminatory taxation that favors elite anti-gun agendas over the rights and wallets of everyday citizens, ensuring the Commonwealth doesn’t devolve into a nanny state that prioritizes control over freedom.

I would like to provide some context as to who I am because It provides important context to my opinions and statements below. I have been a Virginia resident for 28 years in Fairfax and Arlington counties, and a public servant for 23 years. I am an independent voter and believe that no party adequately represents the full spectrum of my beliefs. I believe that it is the diversity of thought and experience in the different communities in Virginia what keeps VA purple AND What keeps it strong. We are blessed to have people we disagree with as our neighbors because it keeps our minds open and agile, and reenforces empathy for our fellow citizens. Our country and our neighbors are suffering deeply right now because the political pendulum is swinging so hard that it cannot be tolerated by our neighbors, and then when it swings in the other direction it cannot be tolerated by us. Pushing this pendulum to swing harder and faster and farther is what will tear our society apart. I voted for Governor Spanberger and Representative Walkinshaw in the last election because I wanted to defend the diversity that strengthens us as a country and also protect my family members in marginalized minority groups. I hoped I wasn’t voting for another extremist, or another person who was take the pendulum and swing it as hard as they could in the other direction. I definitely didn’t vote for nor do I support the more extreme elements of the proposed firearms legislation. HB207 - Keys-Gamarra Tax of $500 on suppressors is inherently discriminatory to low income individuals. The right to own firearms and firearms related equipment should not be one exclusively available to high income individuals HB919 – Lopez HB1094 - Laufer These bills are reasonable and where the revenue would go is directly applicable to what is being taxed. I support this legislation. HB217 - Helmer, Clark and Sullivan This proposed legislation is uninformed and written inconsistently. Capacity of up to 20 rounds is extremely common. Those extra rounds do not markedly decrease the lethality of a pistol or a rifle. It does not change a firearm from semiautomatic to a automatic. If someone had malicious intent to use a firearm, it takes less than one second to swap a magazine. This legislation significantly impacts the large sport shooting community in Virginia. In order to be competitive in national competitions you need to train with higher capacity magazines or you will not be nearly as competitive. It also makes it impossible to obtain new firearms to stay competitive as the sport advances. Many of the characteristics that have been steamed “assault-style” are extremely common in hunting scenarios, keep the hunter safe in dangerous conditions, and protect their hearing and the peacefulness of the area in which they’re hunting. I firmly believe in the fallibility of humans and their propensity towards greed and power. The Second Amendment was given to us by our forefathers to ensure the consent of the governed. This amendment goes too far to neuter the balance of power between governing forces and the people that are governed. This legislation will also further polarize the conservative constituents of Virginia. Do not legislate against something they deeply value unless you wish for them to legislate against something that you deeply value. I do not support this legislation.

I agree with the VCDL on these bills

My comments are directed at both HB919 and HB1094. At what point will the Democrat Party launch a full-frontal assault on all of our 10 bills of rights? An 111% tax on ammo and firearms is not needed. Former Governor Glenn Youngkin left the Democrats a $25 billion budget excess, so why the tax increase? This is nothing more than an attack on our civil rights. First eliminate the peasants’ ability to defend and protect themselves and their families. After that, it will all fall. No more free exercise of religion; no more freedom of speech; no more protection from search and seizure. This bill should be defeated by every freedom loving legislator.

I/We The People, strongly oppose the proposed taxes in HB207, imposing a $500 fee on suppressors, and in HB919 and HB1094, levying an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition, represent a blatant infringement on the Second Amendment rights of Virginia citizens. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and individual, as in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), extending protections against state overreach. These bills effectively create financial barriers to exercising this constitutional right, akin to poll taxes that were struck down for suppressing voting rights in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966). By targeting tools essential for self-defense, hunting, and hearing protection—like suppressors that mitigate noise-induced hearing loss—these measures disproportionately burden law-abiding Virginians, punishing them for responsibly engaging in protected activities while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore such laws. Virginia’s lawmakers should reject this unconstitutional scheme that erodes federal protections and sets a dangerous precedent for taxing other enumerated rights. Beyond their unconstitutionality, these taxes are profoundly unfair and detrimental to Virginia’s citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities and stifling personal freedoms in a state already plagued by overregulation. An 11% hike on guns and ammo would hit low-income families hardest, making self-defense unaffordable for those in high-crime areas, while the $500 suppressor tax penalizes responsible gun owners seeking safer shooting practices without benefiting public safety. This revenue grab ignores Virginia’s history of fiscal mismanagement, diverting funds from real priorities like education and infrastructure to fund bloated government programs, all while infringing on the core American value of individual liberty. Lawmakers must oppose these bills to protect hardworking Virginians from discriminatory taxation that favors elite anti-gun agendas over the rights and wallets of everyday citizens, ensuring the Commonwealth doesn’t devolve into a nanny state that prioritizes control over freedom. Our constitution prohibits tyrannical government. We The People oppose an attempt by a tyrannical state government to infringe our rights that the Constitution gives us. We The People Stand against any form of overreach that is unconstitutional. Thank you and God Bless this State and the USA.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094 . This isn’t making things more affordable for Virginia families.

These bills are undermining the citizens ability to protect themselves as is a right via the constitution. It incriminates more responsible gun owners than those who are not. To make more criminals in effort to reduce the danger in our state is counter productive. Please do not pass this bill. Vote NO on these

I oppose this legislation

I oppose these bills. These bills will deprive me of my rightful property and my favorite hobbies. This is tyrannical governance at its best

As a retired Active Duty, Sergeant First Class that swore an oath to support and defend the U.S. Constitution. I am watching firearms legislations being filed that appalls me to the core. Especially when these legislations are proposed and voted on by individuals that know nothing about firearms, Democrat veterans and Democrats Legislators, that took an oath to the Constitution that also want to disarm law abiding citizens and tell them what they can or cannot own. This is an assault on the Constitutional rights of all law-abiding, legal gun owners, veterans, servicemembers and military aged civilians between the ages of 18 and 20. For 250 years, our Constitutional Republic, Our Nation has upheld our Constitution and those rights that are enshrined in it are protected from infringement. These legislations do not promote public safety, not do they have anything to do with public safety. They are only suppressing the rights of individuals tgat are not committing crimes and that will not commit crimes. These legislations do NOT prevent or deter crime. These legislations suppress the the rights of Veterans, Law Abiding Citizens, Active Duty Servivemen and Women, National Guardsmen, and First Responders. I am sure you are going to exempt law enforcement and retired law enforcement from these legislations. Yet you will suppress the rights of people that never committed a crime.

I deeply oppose these bills

Why a tax on items used for sport/recreation? Why should law abiding citizens who choose to pursue a particular sport or hobby be burdened with the highest tax in the state? This seems like a 'hatred' tax towards gun owners and I urge you to remove this bill.

I strongly oppose these tax bills. These and other tax increases will not help make Virginia any more affordable for families already struggling with higher than ever cost of living. I urge you to please reject these tax increases.

To the Honorable Members of the House of Delegates, I am writing to express my firm opposition to HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094. Collectively, these bills seek to impose an unprecedented financial burden on law-abiding Virginians exercising their Second Amendment rights. The Impact of HB 207 (The Suppressor Tax). HB 207 proposes a $500 excise tax on firearm suppressors. This is a tax on safety equipment, not a luxury. • Hearing Protection: Suppressors do not "silence" firearms; they simply reduce the report to hearing-safe levels. They take a sound-level comparable to a jet plane taking off and lower it to that of a jackhammer. This is vital for the health of hunters and the peace of mind of neighbors near target ranges. • Negligible Criminal Use: The last instance of a legally owned suppressor used in a crime in Virginia was in 2019. Law-abiding owners should not be punitively taxed for a single event nearly seven years ago. • Economic Exclusion: With many suppressors priced at $300, a $500 tax represents a 160% tax rate. This effectively prices lower-income Virginians out of the market, making hearing protection a privilege only for the wealthy. The Impact of HB 919 and HB 1094 (Firearms and Ammunition Excise Tax). These bills seek an 11% excise tax on the gross sales of firearms and ammunition. This functions as a "sin tax" on a fundamental civil right. • A Dangerous Precedent: We would never consider an excise tax on book publishers or news organizations, as it would clearly unconstitutionally increase the cost of exercising First Amendment rights. The Second Amendment deserves that same level of protection. • Public Safety: Owning a firearm is not a "sin." Firearms are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Furthermore, by increasing the cost of ammunition, the state actively discourages the regular training and proficiency that lead to responsible ownership. These measures do not address the root causes of crime; they only penalize the law-abiding. I urge you to vote "No" on HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094. Please protect the rights of your constituents to safely and affordably defend themselves.

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094.

I oppose HB207, HB919, HB1094.

Vote no on these unconstitutional taxes.

I oppose these bills and any bill that punishes law-abiding American citizens from exercising their constitutional rights. Instead, you should increase penalties for criminals and revise bail laws.

Virginia was in good shape, we had a surplus of money that Gov Youngkin gave back to the taxpayers. And NOW you want to raise taxes on everything. There are alot of us on a fixed income and can't afford the taxes. These taxes are no necessary unless it is putting money into your pockets. This needs to stop or we will vote you out, after we do a recall. You are not doing what is best for the taxpayers in Virginia. You are doing this for you and how much money it will put in your pockets. STOP THE RAISING OF ANY TAXES ON VIRGINIANS.

I oppose HB 207, HB919, and HB1094! They are unconstitutional.

I oppose HB207: HB919, and HB1094.

All three of these bills are tantamount to a sin tax against those who are legally exercising their second amendment rights. Gun owners are not criminals and should not be punished in this way. Are free speech and first amendment rights going to be taxed as well by charging extra for books or ink or posters? These three bills are a gross misuse of power and are bad for the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The proposed taxes in HB207, imposing a $500 fee on suppressors, and in HB919 and HB1094, levying an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition, represent a blatant infringement on the Second Amendment rights of Virginia citizens. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and individual, as in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), extending protections against state overreach. These bills effectively create financial barriers to exercising this constitutional right, akin to poll taxes that were struck down for suppressing voting rights in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966). By targeting tools essential for self-defense, hunting, and hearing protection—like suppressors that mitigate noise-induced hearing loss—these measures disproportionately burden law-abiding Virginians, punishing them for responsibly engaging in protected activities while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore such laws. Virginia’s lawmakers should reject this unconstitutional scheme that erodes federal protections and sets a dangerous precedent for taxing other enumerated rights. Beyond their unconstitutionality, these taxes are profoundly unfair and detrimental to Virginia’s citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities and stifling personal freedoms in a state already plagued by overregulation. An 11% hike on guns and ammo would hit low-income families hardest, making self-defense unaffordable for those in high-crime areas, while the $500 suppressor tax penalizes responsible gun owners seeking safer shooting practices without benefiting public safety. This revenue grab ignores Virginia’s history of fiscal mismanagement, diverting funds from real priorities like education and infrastructure to fund bloated government programs, all while infringing on the core American value of individual liberty. Lawmakers must oppose these bills to protect hardworking Virginians from discriminatory taxation that favors elite anti-gun agendas over the rights and wallets of everyday citizens, ensuring the Commonwealth doesn’t devolve into a nanny state that prioritizes control over freedom.

These proposed bills are a blatant attack on our 2nd amendment rights and personal liberties. They will do nothing to stop crime but as usual, restrict the law abiding responsible gun owners. Why don't you stop making it easier for criminals to walk our streets and at the same time try to restrict our ability to defend our families and ourselves??? You are allowed to be protected by armed security but what you're saying in these proposals is that we don't have the same right.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094 as they infringe our Second Amendment rights.

The proposed taxes in HB207, imposing a $500 fee on suppressors, and in HB919 and HB1094, levying an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition, represent a blatant infringement on the Second Amendment rights of Virginia citizens. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and individual, as in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), extending protections against state overreach. These bills effectively create financial barriers to exercising this constitutional right, akin to poll taxes that were struck down for suppressing voting rights in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966). By targeting tools essential for self-defense, hunting, and hearing protection—like suppressors that mitigate noise-induced hearing loss—these measures disproportionately burden law-abiding Virginians, punishing them for responsibly engaging in protected activities while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore such laws. Virginia’s lawmakers should reject this unconstitutional scheme that erodes federal protections and sets a dangerous precedent for taxing other enumerated rights. Beyond their unconstitutionality, these taxes are profoundly unfair and detrimental to Virginia’s citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities and stifling personal freedoms in a state already plagued by overregulation. An 11% hike on guns and ammo would hit low-income families hardest, making self-defense unaffordable for those in high-crime areas, while the $500 suppressor tax penalizes responsible gun owners seeking safer shooting practices without benefiting public safety. This revenue grab ignores Virginia’s history of fiscal mismanagement, diverting funds from real priorities like education and infrastructure to fund bloated government programs, all while infringing on the core American value of individual liberty. Lawmakers must oppose these bills to protect hardworking Virginians from discriminatory taxation that favors elite anti-gun agendas over the rights and wallets of everyday citizens, ensuring the Commonwealth doesn’t devolve into a nanny state that prioritizes control over freedom.

I’m opposed to these bills. I think it’s tyrannical to discriminate against law abiding gun owners or those who wish to be. We have a constitutional right to keep and bear arms. These bills infringe upon the rights that the constitution says SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED! If you want to stop gun violence, put stronger penalties on those who commit acts of violence with guns. Be honest about the motivation for proposing these bills because they are only punitive to law abiding citizens, and will do NOTHING to prevent gun violence.

I strongly oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

This administration has chipped away at our 2A rights too much already. In less than a month hasrobbed us of our rights more than any other. This is Virginia not California . Southern States live with firearms. Our original framers would be highly upset and disappointed with all of this. Enough. It is outrageous and unconstitutional. This is just another example of Virginia s rights being taxed and taken away for a radical agenda. We do not support this. Shall not be infringed! Thankyou

I oppose the above bills, HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

Gun control advocates for years spouted that their stance is for "gun safety" not abolition. All three of the bills, 207, 954, and 1094 are blatant attempts at eventual abolition and restricting the availability of safety devices. A $500 tax on suppressors flies in the face of the new federal ruling that has reduced the tax to $0. Firearm suppressors are considered PPE by the military, law enforcement as well as the general public. Suppressors are virtually NEVER used in crime, approximately 0.003% of the 1.3 million legally owned suppressors in the our county used in crime. Suppressors protect the hearing of the user and bystanders when using firearms. So let me get this straight, Everytown for "gun safety" doesn't actually want guns to be safer?? Perhaps it comes from a fundamental misunderstanding of how firearms work, how suppressors work and maybe a fundamental misunderstanding for how guns are even used and to what degree they are actually used legally compared to when they are used illegally? You can quote disingenuous statistics until we are all blue in the face; so long as the listener never investigates those contrived statistics like "the leading cause of child deaths" except they don't tell you that stat includes up to 21 year olds and suicides. Excise taxes? To folks in underprivileged neighborhoods, that crime is often a fact of every day life, and yet the left would seek to make it more expensive for them to acquire the most effective equalizing tool to defend themselves? In the quiet back room, I'm sure you would call it "a sacrifice for the greater good" no doubt. User friendly firearms, enable the most weak of our society to defend themselves against the most strong. This is a liberating reality that has not been actualized for all of human society until the invention of firearms. The weapons that you seek to outlaw, are the very ones that provide the weakest among us the best possible chance of survival against an assailant that your weak judiciary system let out on the street after their 15th arrest. But of course, the left chooses to attack the ease of access to inanimate objects that perform no actions on their own, rather than seeking to tackle the root of the problem of crime and violence - culture. Firearms exist, knives exist, 3000lb automobiles exist, scalpels exist.. scalpels and forceps have killed more human beings than any other devices on the face of the earth..but thats a different topic I suppose. Firearms existence won't cease, you can't put the cat back in the bag. The lie of "we don't want to take your guns" is laid bare when its realized that the only reason you aren't attempting full abolition, is because your insidious agenda is to slowly degrade rights like a frog in boiling water. Every totalitarian regime begins first with disarming its people. Hundreds of millions of people just in the 20th century alone (and I do not exaggerate) have been murdered by their own governments under regimes claiming to uphold "the greater good" for "utopia". You cannot solve a cultural problem by attacking a mechanism. Britain's stabbing epidemic is indicative of this. Human sinful intent is the driving force, and sinful intent finds a way no matter what tools are available. Tools to defend life should be the best and most efficient possible. The ownership of weapons is not something that can be bestowed like a magic talisman to the "right people only", only the wrong people will have them if you try.

These taxes are regressive and hurt lower income Virginians. A recent study by the New York times of all places advocates that we should treat suppressors as personal protective equipment, as they are throughout most of Europe. Shooting on suppressed firearms at an indoor range can have serious health effects such as micro-concussions. The 11% tax on firearms and ammunition is a direct tax on exercising a right, will undoubtedly face constitutional scrutiny, and punishes law-abiding Virginians for something they didn't do

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094

I am writing today to express my opposition to an excise tax on firearms and ammunition sales in VA. This will ultimately hurt the economy driving millions of dollars of sales out of the state and add to the financial struggle of millions of Virginians who exercise their 2nd amendment rights. WE did not vote or agree to be taxed more AND it is not constitutional to tax a right.

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094 and all unconstitutional acts. The US Constitution and the Virginia Constitution state clearly it is the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. The government has no power to alter that. No proposed bill will lessen gun violence, nor is it common sense reform. Less than 2.5% of gun owners commit any crime, let alone gun violence. This is an attack on reasonable, reaponsible, and lawful firearm owners. Meanwhile, citizens such as myself watch as criminals continuously are provided lax judgement and commit repeated offenses with minimal recourse. Uphold the laws aa they are written; writing new laws only threatens the free and lawful people you are supposed to represent.

I oppose HB207, HB919, HB1094.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

Dear General Assembly Members; HB207, HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are unnecessary and retaliatory in nature, will have a negative impact on large and small Virginia businesses, and will impose undo hardships for many. These bills clearly target the 423,000+ law-abiding Virginia firearm owners and countless businesses reliant on the industry as their primary source of income. With the $200 NFA tax lifted, a $500 suppressor tax and 11% sales tax on firearms and ammunition are retaliatory and serve no other purpose than to target and financially burden Virginian firearm owners, especially those at an economic disadvantage, which is an egregious disservice to low-income earners. The General Assembly should instead pursue common sense and bipartisan legislation aimed at the affordability that was promised its citizens. HB207, HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are insults to good people with good intentions seeking a good life, especially when we closed 2025 with a general fund revenue surplus of $2.7B dollars. I oppose all these bills and hold you accountable to stay true to your sworn oath of office and Constitution of Virginia by opposing HB207, HB217, HB919, and HB1094. The governing body is in place to serve The People, not limit their well being. Thank you for your time and consideration.

To whom it may concern, I am AGAINST bill HB919 and HB1094 because they place an UNFAIR tax on law abiding gunowners. The $500 suppressor tax is especially heinous, seeing that there have been few, if ANY crimes committed using a Federally Registered suppressor (Or other firearms covered under the NFA act) since the law was enacted in 1934. There is absolutely NO reason to impose a $500 tax on suppressors except petty, political, partisan SPITE!

I oppose HB207 HB919 HB1094

I am 77 years old, and hard of hearing from both my past work environment and shooting sports. Even with ear protection, I have continued to lose my hearing. A suppressor in combination with a set of ear muffs would make my limited hearing sustainable for the few years I have left. It would also decrease the noise production less disturbing to the fellow firearm enthusiasts. It is but a muffler, and does not nullify firearm sounds. A tax added to the purchase of firearms and ammunition would make my continued enjoyment of the shooting sport difficult since I am on a just sustainable retirement income. It is one of the few enjoyments I have left. Don't take this beloved activity away from this older gentleman. Obey the constitution as written, and quail the tyrant you are producing in the Commonwealth of Virginia. That is all.

Lifetime resident of the Commonwealth and I OPPOSE HB207, HB919 and HB1094

HB207: Given the timing of this bills introduction occurring after the removal of the $200 dollar federal tax stamp on suppressors, Its no doubt this is a purely punitive tax meant to punish rather than to retain revenue for the state. Given the well established precedent by the supreme court ruling that rights cannot be taxed (ink for printing press per Minneapolis Star v. Minnesota) as it pertains to the first amendment, so too is the second amendment free from receiving separate and purely punitive taxes. Additionally, this taxation will not withstand the NYSRPA v Bruen ruling where a specific outlying tax on firearm and firearm accessories can be dated back to the founding. Millions of dollars of taxpayer dollars will be spent fighting this bill in court, far more than would ever be gained by the commonwealth in unconstitutional revenue. HB919 & HB1094: Similar to the above, Minneapolis Star v. Minnesota has already ruled that a tax on on ink and paper, being separate from a general sales tax on all goods, is an unconstitutional tax against free speech, so too is a specific 11% tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers which as applied will be passed on to the consumers. Additionally, this unconstitutional tax will gravely impact the training budgets of the over 20,000 law enforcement personnel in Virginia as well as the 27 military bases housing approx 130,000 active duty military personnel who rely on firearms and ammunition to train and protect our commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. The taxpayers in the commonwealth will pay millions of dollars to fight this tax through local and circuit courts over the coming years only to see it struck down by SCOTUS all while seeing ammo purchases simply go outside the state to acquire ammo outside of taxable revenue streams.

Among the litany of other tax bills on their way to the Governor, HB207 not only puts a 500$ tax on NFA items which are protected under the 2nd Amendment which is not only in the Bill of Rights and Virginia's Constitution, but HB1094 and HB919 puts an 11% tax on any firearm related purchase, these bills are nothing but a sin tax, and our right that is enshrined in our constitution should not be taxed away to the point where only the rich can exercise that right.

I am a lifelong citizen of Virginia and this has afforded me the opportunity to participate in many outdoor, hunting and sport shooting activities. I like many others hunt to provide food for my family and those I love. I target shoot to practice safety and to teach the generations that follow me how to properly use, handle and respect firearms. I also rely on firearms as a means to protect my home and family. I do not have the luxury of city living where help is mere moments away. Response times for my department can be delayed depending on what is going on in our county and the limited resources of our very dedicated Sheriff’s Department. Now as a political tool I am being told to exercise this right I will have to pay an unjust tax because I lawfully carry out these activities like millions of other citizens in this Commonwealth. This is nothing more than a punishment for those of use that rely on these firearms for our way of life and families. HB919 and HB1094 will only punish those that follow the law and will not prevent criminals from performing evil acts. As for HB207, contrary to stereotypes suppressors are an extremely useful hearing protection device. I suffer from tinnitus from my time in the military and work related hearing damage. I am very familiar with the dangers of the noise created with firearms and learned far too late the damage that can come from exposure. As a sportsmen and avid shooter I have used suppressors and hearing protection to protect myself, my kids, and my friends. The recent changes to the NFA Tax Stamp has made suppressors more affordable to protect more people. This bill is a step backwards for the safety of the citizens in Virginia. And why we ask, because of movie myths that portray these devices as something that can make firearms more deadly. They are for sound reduction not silencing of firearms. Decibel reduction is much different than the completely silent examples often portrayed. These items still have to be purchased through an extensive background check through the NFA which prevents these items from falling into the hands of criminals. Again this is an unjust tax being imposed out of fear of an object due to fiction and not fact and offers yet another hurdle without benefit for law abiding citizens of Virginia. I implore you as a neighbor of this Virginian and many more to vote down these measures that will punish law abiding citizens.

I wanted to share my opposition to these bills in light of the tremendous lack of data showing that any of these will dissuade criminal activity, lessen offenses, or better our communities in any articulable way. The data just doesn't support the need for increased taxation for law-abiding gun owners. It has been said throughout the years, and I have a hard time finding a counterargument: Criminals don't follow the law, so why should more laws, more taxation, or more firearm regulation persist? Instead, I suggest proposing efforts along the lines of mental health reform, addiction intervention, and stiffening penalties for offenses. These, unlike more gun control, are actually proven to reduce criminal activity while elevating the greatest asset in any culture, love. Reduce taxes, all of them. Find waste, fraud, and expose it. Tighten budgets, find savings. This is something all constituents will rally together to support. Do this, and you'll have my support, regardless of party affiliation.

Gentlemen, Concerning HB207, It concerns me that the state would charge such an outrageous tax on an item that protects the safety of the individual and any others standing near a Firearm being discharged, that has the capacity of causing hearing loss, especially at a range or shooting event. The suppressor only reduces the sound to a safe decibel level not deaden the sound completely. If a criminal wishes to use one in the commission of a crime he or she would more likely obtain one by theft or other illegal means. Therefore the average citizens will be penalized for using their Constitutional Right, especially those with lower incomes. In reference to Bills HB919 and HB1094, they too are designed to restrict the average American from having free access to ammunition for recreational shooting sports, for practice with a weapon used for protection (which by the way gives the user more active time with their weapon, which enables safer use of said weapon), and for hunting. These laws spit on every law abiding citizen and every veteran that has fought and died for the freedoms which you yourselves possess. Thank you Gentlemen, Troy Barrett

I profoundly disagree with passing any of these bills as detrimental to the US Cinstitution and the Virginia Constitution.

I am an avid hunter. On a yearly basis- I average 50-80 days of hunting per year during numerous season. I average $700-1000 in ammunition per year during these hunting seasons. This tax is going to tremendously impact my season by not allowing me to hunt as many days or purchase necessary equipment. This is basically robbing Peter to pay Paul. I spend these tax dollars in many different ways during these seasons via sales taxes, gas taxes, licenses and fees, vehicle and boat registrations as well as may others. This is an un necessary tax burden when we already have a multi-billion dollar surplus.

Chair, members of the Subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to speak. My name is Grayson Davis, and I am a resident of King William County, Virginia. I’m writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094. Each of these bills represents unnecessary government overreach that would impose new restrictions on responsible citizens while doing little to solve the issues they claim to address. As written, they risk penalizing law-abiding Virginians, burdening local enforcement, and undermining individual rights and community freedoms that our state has long respected. I urge this Subcommittee to consider the real impact these measures will have on ordinary citizens who already comply with existing laws. Instead of layering new regulations or controls, our focus should remain on practical, evidence-based solutions — ones that respect personal responsibility, property rights, and the freedoms guaranteed under both the Virginia and U.S. Constitutions. Please reject HB207, HB919, and HB1094, and stand with the Virginians who value liberty, accountability, and common-sense governance. Thank you for your time and your service to our Commonwealth.

I’m writing to strongly oppose House Bills 207, 919, and 1094. These bills place an unfair financial burden on Virginians who want to exercise their constitutional right to keep and bear arms. The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and Article I, Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution clearly protect these rights and limit government interference. Taxing items like hearing protection (which is a safety measure), commonly used firearms, and ammunition is a clear attempt to discourage law-abiding citizens from exercising their rights. These added costs will mainly impact lower- and middle-income Virginians, making it harder for them to afford lawful self-defense, while wealthier residents will be less affected. This raises serious concerns about the intent and fairness of these proposals. These taxes also contradict recent promises to make Virginia more affordable. Under Governor Youngkin’s vetoes, Virginia remained more affordable and our constitutional rights were protected. These bills appear to be a deliberate attempt to impose new financial pressure on citizens who simply want to exercise fundamental freedoms. Unconstitutional burdens placed on basic liberties through excessive taxes—especially those that disproportionately affect working and middle-class Virginians—are an insult to freedom and a failure to represent the people fairly. I urge you to do the right thing: protect our constitutional rights, keep Virginia affordable, and vote “no” on these bills. With the current budget surplus, there is no need to balance the budget by targeting law-abiding Virginians exercising their rights.

HB207 The purpose of this bill is to make suppressors prohibitively expensive, just like the NFA act of 1934. This bill will once again price people out of being able to purchase these devices. This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax. HB919 & HB1094 These bills create an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. This is a "sin tax" that affects a basic civil right and yet another set of bills pricing people out of gun ownership.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

These gun laws only target lawful gun owners. Specifically, suppressors are hearing protection devices and should be made more accessible to all lawful gun owners. Suppressors do not eliminate noise like Hollywood mistakenly portrays. However, they do reduce the concussive blast experienced by the shooter and those nearby, so I encourage all lawful gun owners to use suppressors to protect their hearing and the hearing of those nearby. The federal government recently reduced the NFA tax on suppressors to zero dollars. This is a good thing. VA's proposed $500 supper tax would make them less accessible.

Bill Ballerd Good heads up. My comments: Dear General Assembly Members; HB207, HB919, and HB1094 are unnecessary and retaliatory in nature, will have a negative impact on large and small Virginia businesses, and will impose undo hardships for many. These bills clearly target the 423,000+ law-abiding Virginia firearm owners and countless businesses reliant on the industry as their primary source of income. With the $200 NFA tax lifted, a $500 suppressor tax and 11% sales tax on firearms and ammunition are retaliatory and serve no other purpose than to target and financially burden Virginian firearm owners, especially those at an economic disadvantage, which is an egregious disservice to low-income earners. The General Assembly should instead pursue common sense and bipartisan legislation aimed at the affordability that was promised its citizens. HB207, HB919, and HB1094 are insults to good people with good intentions seeking a good life, especially when we closed 2025 with a general fund revenue surplus of $2.7B dollars. I oppose all these bills and hold you accountable to stay true to your sworn oath of office and Constitution of Virginia by opposing HB207, HB919, and HB1094. The governing body is in place to serve The People, not limit their well being. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Concerning HB919 and HB1094: Since both bills impose excise tax collections which will be provided to the new "Virginia Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund" (established pursuant to 9.1-116.6) and since that new fund does not specifically provide to localities for the specific purpose of improving public school physical security measures (to prevent gun violence), I urge opposing both HB919 and HB1094. Concerning HB207: Since this egregious level excise tax collection will be provided to the general fund, which is not specifically marked for improving public school physical security measures (to prevent gun violence), and since many suppressors retail at 300 dollars or less (resulting in a 160% tax), I urge opposing HB207.

Bills HB207, HB919 and HB1094 are fundamentally unconstitutional AND discriminatory. They punish people for exercising the constitutional right to purchase arms. Furthermore, they discriminate against minorities and less affluent people, making it disproportionately difficult for them to exercise their rights by targeting them with these invented taxes. These bills have nothing to do with safety, as criminals will have no problem paying these taxes. They are simple income-based discrimination.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094 .

I oppose All of the above Gun Bills. I am not a criminal nor have I ever been one. Our Government can Not protect me my property, or my Family. I have a God given right to bear and own guns Also 2A rights. You work for ME ! You are supposed to represent ME ! Stop with All the Over reach . Let me tell you what you should be doing , You should be passing bills to benefit the American people like Health care, economy, Get rid of these taxes that benefit your needs !! Finish deporting these illegal immigrants you brought into this country !! Again No on Gun bills .

The 2nd amendment does not in any way shape or form all these changes constitutional. Every bill you are pushing through house is definition of infringement. Also the first amendment grants all US citizens the freedom of speech . As a Christian I am subject to hate speech from others and have no avenue of protection other than my 2 nd amendment rights !

I rise in opposition to HB207, HB919, and HB1094 because these bills do not promote safety—they punish Virginians for exercising a constitutional right. By imposing excessive taxes on firearms, ammunition, and suppressors, the state is effectively placing a financial barrier on the Second Amendment. Rights guaranteed by the Constitution are not privileges to be taxed into submission. These proposals disproportionately impact law-abiding citizens, including rural residents, minorities, and lower-income individuals who rely on firearms for lawful self-defense. Wealthier individuals will still be able to afford these costs, while others are priced out of a fundamental right. That is neither equitable nor just. The Constitution does not allow the government to discourage the exercise of a protected right through targeted taxation. We do not impose special taxes on free speech, religious practice, or voting—and we should not do so here. For these reasons, I strongly urge you to reject these bills.

HB207 - I strongly oppose the proposed suppressor tax because it directly conflicts with the values of equity, accessibility, disability accommodation, and public health that this body consistently says it supports. I have documented hearing loss. Audiologists have advised me not to shoot unsuppressed whenever it can be avoided, because further exposure causes irreversible damage. Suppressors are not optional or recreational for me—they are a medically recommended harm-reduction tool. I rely on them while hunting to provide food for my family and while training at the range to prevent further injury. Shooting unsuppressed also causes permanent hearing damage to animals, including working dogs and pets. By taxing a safety device, this bill actively harms Virginians with hearing impairments and creates a financial barrier to compliance with medical guidance. If this were any other disability-related protective equipment, imposing a special tax would rightly be viewed as discriminatory. The policy does not reduce risk—it shifts the burden onto people least able to absorb it. This bill will not meaningfully affect wealthy individuals. It will, however, restrict access for lower- and middle-income Virginians, rural residents, and people with disabilities. That outcome is not equity. It is the opposite. If equity and harm reduction are truly guiding principles, then lawmakers should not be pricing disabled Virginians out of protective equipment that prevents permanent injury. I urge the committee to reconsider and reject this bill. HB919 & HB1094- I oppose HB 919 because it imposes a targeted excise tax on the exercise of a constitutional right and does so in a way that is inequitable, classist, and harmful to working professionals. If the Commonwealth would not impose a special excise tax on book publishers or printing presses because their products enable First Amendment activity, it should not impose one on firearms and ammunition manufacturers whose products enable the exercise of Second Amendment rights. Constitutional rights should not be conditioned on the ability to pay a premium tax. I work in the security field, where firearm proficiency is not optional—it is a legal and professional requirement. We are required to train regularly and complete annual, state-mandated requalification. Ammunition costs are a direct and unavoidable expense of compliance. Any excise tax placed on manufacturers will be passed directly to consumers, increasing the cost of required training and lawful work. This bill does not meaningfully affect wealthy individuals or large institutions. It disproportionately harms armed security professionals, private-sector workers, and lower- and middle-income Virginians who must purchase ammunition and equipment to meet state requirements. That outcome is not equitable. If equity and access are guiding principles, the General Assembly should not price working people out of compliance with the law or impose selective taxes on constitutional activity. I urge the committee to reject HB 919.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094

As a law-abiding citizen of the Commonwealth of Virginia, I urge you to vote NO on HB's 709, 919, and 1094. Virginia ended the last fiscal year with a $2+ Billion surplus. These proposed taxes are only meant to hinder and discourage law-abiding gun owners. They are also regressive in that they inhibit low income citizens from exercising their 2nd Amendment Rights to protect themselves and their loved ones.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by.

I oppose HBs 1094, 919, and 207, which levy excessive taxes on law-abiding gun owners for no apparent reason. Of all the gun control bills, these seem to be particularly punitive in nature, having not even the veneer of a public safety rationale. They just seem intended to exploit gun owners to raise revenue for pet Democrat projects, all while Virginia runs a budget surplus. Voters are noticing who Democrats are taking tax revenue from and who they are giving it to. You all are making national news with your naked wealth redistribution program every day. The voters will punish Democrats for it at the voting booth the first chance they get.

Dear Delegates, I am writing to urge you to oppose House Bills 207, 919, and 1094. These proposals would place additional financial barriers on lawful Virginians seeking to exercise their right to keep and bear arms. While public safety is important, policies that substantially increase the cost of commonly owned firearms, ammunition, or related equipment risk turning a constitutional right into something only affordable for those with greater financial means. Virginia’s Constitution and the Second Amendment recognize an individual right that should not depend on income level. When fees or taxes become significant enough to discourage ordinary citizens from lawful ownership, the burden falls most heavily on lower- and middle-income residents — the very people who may rely most on accessible means of self-defense. There are many ways to promote safety without creating disproportionate economic obstacles. I respectfully ask that you consider approaches that focus on enforcement against criminal misuse rather than measures that broadly impact compliant citizens. For these reasons, I ask you to vote no on these bills.

I oppose ALL of the above gun bills. I am not a criminal never have been . Our Goverment can not protect me , my family or my property I have a God given right to bear arms also 2A rights .You work for ME !! You are suppose to represent ME ! Stop the over reach . Do something that benefits the American citizens , Healthcare, economy, get rid of All these taxes you have burdened the people with , Finish deporting illegal immigrates .

As a retired federal officer (Not ICE), I am concerned about a few things; the proposed magazine and firearms ban, leaving Virginia citizens unprotected against criminals who will not follow the laws, and the retired Federal, State and Local officers who DO NOT have the ability to purchase their duty firearm and 15 round magazines. As retired officers, most of us are still quietly acting as Sheepdogs, still watching over our neighbors and strangers. Not exempting retired officers from the magazine ban can be catastrophic, whether you realize it or not. While some state and local officers have the ability to purchase their duty firearm and 15 round mags, some municipalities and all Federal officers do NOT have this luxury, and it will create a disparity among those who can purchase and keep their 15 round magazines and those who cannot by either law or policy. The US Constitution does not regulate what firearms Americans can keep, with some exceptions; but it DOES permit US Citizens to keep & bear arms. Historically kept firearms have been recognized by the high courts as not illegal and have ruled in favor of this. Like many, I feel that this "gun grab" as it's called was rushed through too quickly without considering the retirees who have served this state with honor and dignity. I urge you to not just ban 15 round mags for our citizens, but especially for the retirees. The way the language is currently written, the 15 round ban will not affect officers who have the ability to purchase their duty firearms upon retirement, but would not apply to many others including all federal officers & agents. Not a good way to keep your voters; and could be considered biased by the high courts. We are all the same; we served and protected. Thank you.

HB207: $500 tax on suppressors. This sounds like a poll tax that a Virginia resident would have to pay prior to exercising a constitutional right to own and shoot firearms. Might as well combine this with the Poll tax that was implemented for blacks and poor whites to vote . Oh wait, that tax was declared illegal. As should this tax. HB919/HB1094: 11% excise tax This sounds like a poll tax that a Virginia resident would have to pay prior to exercising a constitutional right to own and shoot firearms. Might as well combine this with the Poll tax that was implemented for blacks and poor whites to vote. Oh wait, that tax was declared illegal, as should this tax. I bet minority citizens will LOVE THIS tax, don't you think????

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094. These bills are unconstitutional!

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, HB 1094.

I oppose all of these bills as they are against to 2nd Amendment. More importantly, do you really believe that criminals will follow these laws? No. They will continue to commit crimes and if necessary go out of state to acquire what they need. Law abiding patriots, when armed are the best deterrent to crime! I also assume that you folks will not have personal protection details and if you do they will not be allowed to carry the type of firearms you are trying to outlaw!

Good day, As a lifelong Democrat I respectfully ask the committee to vote against HB 207 (suppressor tax). Suppressors are an important aid in hearing protection for hunters and recreational shooters; for outdoor ranges or shooters that are hunting or shooting on their own property, they help keep the noise down for neighbors. Suppressors are not commonly used in crime; in fact, a suppressor has not been used in a crime in Virginia since 2019. In order to obtain a suppressor in the United States of America, the purchaser must submit paperwork to the ATF that requests permission to acquire a suppressor, along with fingerprints, background check, and a passport photo. Once the paperwork is submitted the ATF performs a background check and then decides to approve or deny the application. These are not items you walk into the gun shop and walk out with ten minutes later- in stark contrast, in fact, to most Western European countries, where that actually is how you buy a suppressor. The lack of a $200 federal tax on the tax stamp required to buy a suppressor does not mean that you don't have to do the paperwork with the ATF. A $500 tax on suppressors in Virginia would do little more than disenfranchise those without much money from being able to buy them, and increase costs for everyone across the board that is trying to protect their hearing or be polite to their neighbors. In addition, as a lifelong Democrat I respectfully ask the committee to vote against HB's 919 and 1094 (firearms and ammunition taxes). Prices for food, utilities, and housing are rising across the board and inflation continues to climb. Taxes on firearms and ammunition is not common-sense gun legislation, it is a brutal financial attack on the millions of Virginians that own firearms. If we want to solve the problem of gun violence the answer isn't to infringe on a constitutional right (churches don't pay taxes, and you don't get charged a tax to speak your mind or vote), it's to make it so that people to do not feel compelled to resort to violence to make ends meet. In other words, economic and labor legislation is what will fix gun violence (and a lot of other problems, I might add), not just making firearms and ammunition more expensive. High taxes on firearms and ammunition will do little more than raise costs for everyone and specifically disenfranchise low-income Virginians of their right to own and use firearms within the confines of the law. Thank you for taking my comments into consideration and I hope that you will vote against HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094.

I strongly oppose these bills. Adding an 11% tax to firearms and ammunition seems like a targeted tax against a constitutional right. Could this committee imagine adding an 11% sales tax to just the sale of bibles, Qurans, or Torah? Would this legislative body believe that would be a constitutional infringement? I imagine the answer to that question would be yes. Please consider opposing these bills and striking them down. Thank you for your time.

Aganist these bills that attack the second amendment ¡!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HB's 207, 919 and 1094 share some common traits. (1) They do NOTHING to improve public safety. (2) They are money-grabbing efforts by the current Legislative Bodies in Richmond. (The Commonwealth of Virginia already collects more than enough tax money. If the Legislative Bodies and Executive Branch would be good stewards of our tax dollars there would not be a need to create more ways to separate Virginians from their funds.) These, and bills like this, need to be defeated and defeated now.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, HB 1094, I feel these bills do not represent the interests of our state and do not reflect the majority of the citizens.

I oppose HB207/HB919 andHB1094

I passionately oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

HB207 is not an attempt at public safety, but rather an outrageous money-grab on the part of the Commonwealth. The end result is that the wealthy can own a suppressor and the State gets richer. HB 919 and HB1094 is yet another money-grab on the part of the Commonwealth...unreasonable taxation on a commodity.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

Any law, federal or state, that conflicts with the U.S. Constitution is invalid and void because the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Under the Supremacy Clause (Article VI, Clause 2), courts are obligated to strike down such laws. This principle of judicial review ensures that constitutional rights are upheld. Key aspects regarding laws contrary to the Constitution include: Void Ab Initio: A law inconsistent with the Constitution is considered invalid, and courts must treat it as unenforceable. Supremacy Clause: This clause binds judges in every state, meaning federal law takes priority over conflicting state laws. Judicial Review: Federal courts, led by the Supreme Court, have the final authority to determine if statutes are constitutional.

The increase of taxes for firearms, ammo, and accessories is 100% partisan tax increase on the gun community that doesn’t pose a safety problem in the state. These taxes will not create a safer Virginia or alter the amount of gun violence that takes place.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. These bills, if passed into state law, would immediately be repugnant to the U.S. Constitution, thus rendering them null and void. These proposed bills would be immediate violations of the Natural Rights of man, which the U.S. Constitution does not grant but acknowledges. As a legal American Citizen, as a legal citizen of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and as a free man with inalienable Natural Rights endowed by our Creator, I hereby voice my opposition to these unconstitutional bills.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. They are unconstitutional and should be voted down. Address the real issue, criminals and their actions, not law abiding citizens.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094…these blatantly unconstitutional Bills have no place in a free society.

I oppose HB919, HB1094, and HB207. These taxes and unconstitutional—and unreasonable as a matter of basic sense. Suppressors are virtually never used in crimes. They are safety devices. The scale of the suppressor tax is also confiscatory and unreasonable, a clear effort at a ban by making these items too expensive for most people to obtain. As for the 11% tax, I cannot imagine a sensible rationale for taxing a basic civil right, nor is it constitutional to do so. This law will not reduce crime; people who want to commit crimes will not be dissuaded by an 11% tax. The clear purpose is to punish citizens of the Commonwealth for exercising their constitutional rights. It is as odious as an 11% sur-tax on books. I also cannot imagine a more egregious example of the General Assembly making plain that it despises rural Virginians, most of whom own firearms. Any elected official who supports these laws should be ashamed of their ignorance and their hostility to the approximately 45% of Commonwealth citizens who have firearms.

I'll keep it simple, there is no justification for these taxes. This is clearly political retribution being pushed on law abiding citizens.

I oppose these bills!!

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB 1094

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

I oppose these bills marked above, HB 207, 919, 1094. VOTE NO! These bills infringe upon my right to protect and defend myself if needed.

I oppose bills HB207, HB919, HB1094

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by. This message might be used by a few people as it was written by the Culpeper County 2A Facebook page. Make no mistake, I truly feel strong in what is written and laws like these will only cause more harm than good for the law-abiding citizens in this state.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose the passing of HB207, HB1094, and HB919. I am a constituent of Prince William County and a citizen in good standing and ask that you please do not infringe upon my constitutional right to bear these arms. It is stated in our, mine and your United States Constitution and there gives me these rights. Also being voted on and made law by the Supreme Court of these United States of America. We the People elect you. We the people do not give you permission to take these rights. We The People do not want you to disregard Federal law !! In doing so any Federal recourse funnels down hill !! Thank you in advance for doing the right thing by the constituents of Va. Honestly Doug Fisher

Im a resident in the DMV area and I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. My rights shall not be infringed. Any law, federal or state, that conflicts with the U.S. Constitution is invalid and void because the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Under the Supremacy Clause (Article VI, Clause 2), courts are obligated to strike down such laws. This principle of judicial review ensures that constitutional rights are upheld. Key aspects regarding laws contrary to the Constitution include: Void Ab Initio: A law inconsistent with the Constitution is considered invalid, and courts must treat it as unenforceable. Supremacy Clause: This clause binds judges in every state, meaning federal law takes priority over conflicting state laws. Judicial Review: Federal courts, led by the Supreme Court, have the final authority to determine if statutes are constitutional.

Dear Members of the House Committee on Finance, I am writing to state my clear and unequivocal opposition to House Bill Nos. 207, 919, and 1094, and to the broader legislative approach they represent. I am opposed to these measures not only on technical or administrative grounds, but on principle. I oppose any and all forms of firearm regulation, including regulation imposed indirectly through taxation. Each of these bills seeks to use the tax code as a mechanism to discourage, burden, or penalize the lawful ownership, acquisition, or distribution of firearms, ammunition, or related components. Regardless of how they are framed procedurally, these proposals function as regulatory instruments, not neutral revenue measures. HB 207 imposes a flat $500 excise tax on firearm suppressors—devices that are already heavily regulated at the federal level and widely recognized as safety equipment. A flat tax of this magnitude is plainly punitive, bears no relationship to product value or public cost, and exists solely to price ordinary citizens out of lawful ownership. HB 919 and HB 1094 impose elevated percentage-based excise taxes on firearms and ammunition, while explicitly exempting government agencies and law enforcement. This creates a two-tier system in which the state reserves unrestricted access to arms for itself while deliberately increasing the cost and friction imposed on private citizens. I reject the premise that the exercise of a fundamental right should be treated as a taxable privilege. Taken together, these bills reveal a coordinated attempt to achieve gun control objectives through fiscal means—avoiding direct prohibitions while still suppressing lawful conduct through financial pressure. This is not sound tax policy, and it is not an appropriate use of the Commonwealth’s taxing authority. Further, earmarking the revenue from these targeted taxes to specific policy programs underscores their regulatory intent. When a narrowly tailored tax is imposed on a constitutionally protected activity and the proceeds are directed to programs designed to reduce or discourage that same activity, the tax ceases to be neutral and becomes a tool of coercion. I do not support amendments, consolidation, or further study of these proposals. I oppose them outright. I also oppose the broader concept of using taxation as a substitute for direct firearm regulation. Virginians do not forfeit constitutional protections by engaging in lawful commerce, and those protections should not depend on one’s ability to absorb artificially imposed costs. I urge the Committee to reject HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094 in their entirety and to refrain from advancing any future measures that seek to regulate firearms, ammunition, or related components through the tax code or otherwise. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully, Obin Robinson Norfolk, VA US Navy Veteran with 20 years of honorable service

I am a proud Virginian. I represent thousands of Virginia's like me. I strongly oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094. Virginia will not lie down and die like California. There is a reason the woman on our state flag is armed. She stands tall with her foot over a defeated tyrant. Her weapon in hand. Chains broken. The living room I am writing mere feet from was built a few years before this country declared its independence. The same spirit and red hot blood that our forefathers had runs through my veins. Let us not be so naive to think that criminals will follow laws and that politicians will always do good to those they are sworn to serve. In the face of unconstitutional laws, it is my duty as an American to resist. I will include this next piece here since it is questionable that anyone who signs these bills has read it before; "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed". Thank you for your time and for hearing these words. God bless our beautiful state and may he keep us and guide us by His love. -Taylor Helm

I support the comments of Virginia Civil Defense League on these bills.

I strongly oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094, and will actively and aggressively advocate against anyone voting for them in future elections. Furthermore, given any opportunity I will join in and participate in lawsuits resulting from these efforts.

Dear General Assembly Members; HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are unnecessary and retaliatory in nature, will have a negative impact on large and small Virginia businesses, and will impose undo hardships for many. These bills clearly target the 423,000+ law-abiding Virginia firearm owners and countless businesses reliant on the industry as their primary source of income. With the $200 NFA tax lifted, a $500 suppressor tax and 11% sales tax on firearms and ammunition are retaliatory and serve no other purpose than to target and financially burden Virginian firearm owners, especially those at an economic disadvantage, which is an egregious disservice to low-income earners. The General Assembly should instead pursue common sense and bipartisan legislation aimed at the affordability that was promised its citizens. HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are insults to good people with good intentions seeking a good life, especially when we closed 2025 with a general fund revenue surplus of $2.7B dollars. I oppose all these bills and hold you accountable to stay true to your sworn oath of office and Constitution of Virginia by opposing HB217, HB919, and HB1094. The governing body is in place to serve The People, not limit their well being. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by. "

I oppose HB bills 207, 919 and 1094. Vote NO. These bill infringe upon my right to defend myself and others if needed. VOTE NO.

These laws are in direct violation of our 2nd amendment and will not be enforced by any law enforcement that remember the oath they took. Stop making laws that restrict and violate the rights of law abiding citizens especially while you are going soft on criminals committing crimes with guns.

Unfair taxes opposed to HB 1094 and HB919

"I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by. "

I urge you to oppose HB207 (Gamarra), which creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing? I also urge you to oppose both HB919 (Lopez)& HB1094 (Laufer), which creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Thank you for your time!

HB207, HB919 and HB1094 I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094 are in blatant violation of the below... Any law, federal or state, that conflicts with the U.S. Constitution is invalid and void because the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Under the Supremacy Clause (Article VI, Clause 2), courts are obligated to strike down such laws. This principle of judicial review ensures that constitutional rights are upheld. Key aspects regarding laws contrary to the Constitution include: Void Ab Initio: A law inconsistent with the Constitution is considered invalid, and courts must treat it as unenforceable. Supremacy Clause: This clause binds judges in every state, meaning federal law takes priority over conflicting state laws.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

Dear General Assembly Members; HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are unnecessary and retaliatory in nature, will have a negative impact on large and small Virginia businesses, and will impose undo hardships for many. These bills clearly target the 423,000+ law-abiding Virginia firearm owners and countless businesses reliant on the industry as their primary source of income. With the $200 NFA tax lifted, a $500 suppressor tax and 11% sales tax on firearms and ammunition are retaliatory and serve no other purpose than to target and financially burden Virginian firearm owners, especially those at an economic disadvantage, which is an egregious disservice to low-income earners. The General Assembly should instead pursue common sense and bipartisan legislation aimed at the affordability that was promised its citizens. HB217, HB919, and HB1094 are insults to good people with good intentions seeking a good life, especially when we closed 2025 with a general fund revenue surplus of $2.7B dollars. I oppose all these bills and hold you accountable to stay true to your sworn oath of office and Constitution of Virginia by opposing HB217, HB919, and HB1094. The governing body is in place to serve The People, not limit their well being. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I oppose bill HB207,HB919,HB1094.

I oppose HB207 HB919 HB1094 Stop this insanity

❌ Oppose HB 207 (Keys-Gamarra) HB 207 imposes additional firearm restrictions that burden lawful gun owners while doing nothing to address violent crime. Laws that target possession rather than criminal misuse undermine constitutional protections and divert attention from enforcing existing laws against violent offenders. ❌ Oppose HB 566 (McNamara) HB 566 expands government control over lawful firearm ownership without historical justification or evidence of effectiveness. The Second Amendment protects the right of ordinary citizens to keep and bear arms, and broad regulatory schemes like this fail constitutional scrutiny under the Supreme Court’s Bruen framework. ❌ Oppose HB 919 (Lopez) HB 919 penalizes lawful firearm possession and commerce rather than criminal behavior. Public safety is not enhanced by placing additional legal and financial barriers on responsible citizens, and this bill risks chilling the exercise of a fundamental constitutional right. ❌ Oppose HB 954 (Watts) HB 954 advances sweeping firearm restrictions that are unsupported by historical precedent. Under the Constitution, rights cannot be limited simply because lawmakers believe regulation is preferable—restrictions must be narrowly tailored and historically grounded, which this bill is not. ❌ Oppose HB 1008 (Tran) HB 1008 infringes on the rights of law-abiding Virginians by expanding firearm prohibitions beyond constitutional limits. Collective punishment and preemptive restrictions violate due process and ignore the Supreme Court’s clear instruction that firearm regulations must align with historical tradition. ❌ Oppose HB 1094 (Laufer) HB 1094 imposes excessive regulatory burdens that disproportionately impact responsible gun owners while failing to deter criminal violence. The Constitution does not allow rights to be conditioned on convenience, compliance costs, or bureaucratic discretion. ❌ Oppose HB 1362 (McNamara) HB 1362 further erodes the Second Amendment by restricting access to commonly owned firearms and lawful activities. Policies that treat constitutional rights as privileges undermine public trust and expose the Commonwealth to costly and unnecessary litigation. ❌ Oppose HB 1474 (O’Quinn) HB 1474 expands government authority over private firearm ownership in ways that conflict with constitutional protections and established legal precedent. Virginia should focus on punishing criminal misuse of firearms—not restricting the rights of citizens who obey the law.

Taxes on Constitutionally protected items such as firearms and ammunition possessed by law abiding citizens is not only not “affordable”, it is tyrannical. These bills are forms of Jim Crow laws, meant to keep guns out of the hands of low income and minority citizens. Please vote these unconstitutional taxes down.

I oppose bill HB207,HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094 Stop this ridiculousness.

I OPPOSE these bills as do many other citizens that you represent. VOTE NO!!!

I oppose House Bill 207, House Bill 919 and House Bill 1094. House Bill 919 and House Bill 1094 both impose an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition; House Bill 207 adds a $500 tax on suppressors. These are regressive taxes that punish the working poor. A single mother in Louisa County who can only work part time has the same right to self-defense as a much wealthier constituent living in Alexandria, but these taxes may price her out of that right. Regarding HB 207, while movies and TV have led many to believe that suppressors allow one to discharge a firearm without being heard, that is not true; suppressors are safety devices. Hearing safe is far from silent. Both the CDC and NIOSH recognize that suppressors are the only tool capable of reducing dangerous gunfire noise at its source, making them critical for preventing lifelong hearing loss. Taxing safety equipment out of reach is bad public health policy.

I strongly oppose the following bills: HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094. None of these bills will do anything to stop gun violence. All they do is restrict the right of lawful citizens.. I propose a scenario to highlight this: All the anti-2A bills are passed along with the elimination of mandatory sentencing. It's Labor Day weekend '26 and you're out with your family at the farmers market. A criminal, not affected by the anti-2A bills, walks around with a modified assault weapon and 4-30 round magazines. They kill the cops in the immediate area and then open up on the citizens. 63 killed and dozens injured. Now inamige this...same scenario, but this time there are 5 legally armed citizens. Upon hearing the initial shots, they move to neutralize the criminal. 6 killed, plus one crimal out of jail bcz of no mandatory sentencing. Please think about the gun bills you're passing, and explain to me how they would have prevented the first scenario. I'll wait... Please tell me that the safety of those attending the market is enhanced by the elimination of legally owned firearms. The way I see it, all your proposed bills do is prevent the legal gun owner from defending themselves and those around them against the criminal, who you let out of jail. You see, the criminal isn't going to obey any laws, that's why they're criminals. They now know that whoever they target will be unarmed and easy prey...you, your husband/wife, kida, parents...for robbery, sexual assault, assault - battery, or worse...murder. Your vote to disarm legal gun owners only increases the likelihood of more gun violence because now, only the criminal is armed. Please tell me how this makes sense. Again, I'll wait... Respectfully, A Constitutionally back legal gun owner

On behalf of all second amendment supporters, these bills are unconstitutional go against our second amendment right. If these bills become law, it should go without saying that you all should expect major backlash from the citizens of this Commonwealth, or should I say Communistwealth with the bullshit laws that are being proposed.

I oppose these bills. The government doesn’t need new taxes on anything. Taxing citizens that are making purchases for self defense is wrong. Limiting the citizens options for self defense goes against our constitutional rights as well. The 2A says it will not be infringed. Doesn’t say within the limits set forth by government.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. This is unconstitutional

I oppose HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094. Please stop intruding on our second amendment rights. Respectfully, instead of raising your salaries by 150%, maybe lower them so you don’t have to continue taxing us higher. You’re causing people to flee the state. Some moderate our governor is. I worked on Capitol Hill for 10 years and know what a fake looks like. Please stop ruining what was once a beautiful state to raise a family. I’m reconsidering with my wife now.

oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094"

February 9, 2026. I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. Gun control laws penalize the gun owners, not the violent criminals.

I oppose HB207, HB919, HB1094.

I'm writing to express my strong opposition to House Bills 207, 919, and 1094, all of which deliberately place an undue financial burden on Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental, constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. The proscriptions against government infringements upon these fundamental liberties are clearly and unambiguously articulated in the text of the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, and Article I Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. Impeding Virginians' ability to exercise their rights through punitive taxes levied on hearing protection devices (a gun safety measure), arms in common use, and ammunition is a clear attempt to disincentivize the same, and will disadvantage all but the wealthiest Virginians. The disparate impact of such measures raises serious questions about their intent and likely disproportionate harm. Moreover, these taxes fly in the face of the now obviously dishonest recent campaign promises to make Virginia "affordable" again. It was affordable, and our constitutionally guaranteed rights were protected by Governor Youngkin's vetoes. These bills represent a deliberate, and dishonest attempt to extort those Virginians wishing to exercise their fundamental rights, and will disadvantage those least able to afford, and those most in need of readily available means of self defense. Unconstitutional infringements upon fundamental liberties by means of extortionate taxes that will disproportionately harm lower to middle income Virginians, and those in constitutionally protected classes are an insult to freedom loving peoples and a betrayal of your duty to represent the same. Do the right thing, protect our fundamental liberties, and vote "no" on these bills so you can "make Virginia affordable again" as promised. Given the budget surplus with which you were left, you ought to be able to scrape by.

I oppose HB-1094, HB- 919 and HB-207.

I oppose these bills as being a citizen of the USA this is infringing on my second amendment rights. I’m a law abiding citizen and will defend my rights .Criminals will still posses guns and buy ammunition no matter what you try to impose.

I oppose these bills and they need to be voted against Thank you. George Francis

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094!!!

Yes I oppose HB 207 , HB 919 and HB 1094 please do not pass these unconstitutional bills!! Thanks

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB 1094.

To All Involved, We the People DO NOT want all of the tyrannically oppressive bills you are considering to be passed. Especially the ones related to OUR second amendment rights. No where in the constitution is a state given the authority to restrict any of OUR rights and freedoms guaranteed under the constitution. To make any attempt to do so is dancing precariously close to the line of exercising DESPOTISM over the people. Which is exactly why the founding fathers ensured we had a bill of rights written and ratified. At least take some time to seriously think through the implications of any legislation you may want to consider. V/R Charles

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

These bills are nothing but money grabs that will do nothing for public safety an just make purchasing items under these bills more expensive for law abideing citizens i ask you to vote no to both hb 1094 an hb 919. Thank you

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB 1094. These bills are ridiculous and an insult to law abiding Virginians. Will have zero affect on crime.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I am opposed to the new taxes outlined in House Bills 919, 1094 and 207. As Virginia currently has a budget surplus of nearly 2.7 billion dollars, I cannot help but conclude these bills are not about revenue. Rather, they appear to be collective punishment imposed upon law abiding gun owners. Apparently, this is on the theory they are responsible for the gun violence perpitrated by the criminal element and mentally ill, who do not follow the law. The Second Amendment is not tobacco and should not be treated as such. Thank you....

Any house bill that directly or indirectly excludes or increases the burden of lower income citizens from owning firearms is a direct violation of your oaths of office. Taxes should only be fair an reasonable and not hesitate a hindrance to ownership. They should also not be levied on individual categories unless the funds gathered are to aid in or compensate for damage cause by the category (for example, a has tax is used to repair roads from use). Taxes levied only on firearms and ammo should not be repressed in the general fund to be used for political pet projects, but instead utilized for firearm education, use to improve the municipal owned shooting ranges, or for hunter conservation efforts. None of these bills will make Virginia "safer", and regardless what your personal opinions of them is, you know that was never their intention. The purpose of the bills is to add another barrier to the legal ownership of firearms, and to use a state and federal constitutional right as a revenue stream. Instead of looking at your constituents as a bottomless wallet for you to take from, you should be looking at measures that balance the state budget instead of inflating it.

Increasing taxation on firearms,, ammunition and suppressors to discourage citizens from exercising their Second Amendment right has already been dealt with by the US Supreme Court. Which will be struck down in Virginia.

What happened to the campaign promise of cost cutting, lower taxes and making life more affordable for citizens? Defending the bills in court will use taxpayers cash, court time ,labor..Raising taxes on items you don't like and stating costs will lowered is a lie..from the general assembly to the governors office..Honor your oath and correct your lies with truth..Vote no on gun bills..

Politicians system of tax , spend, waste, is a system created by them ..This has been around for years A corrupt system of power. A group think of nonsense..Where they can only see there side and are blinded to any common sense..Will not listen to anyone and if they seem interested it is just to look good in front of everyone..They pretend to listen.But there mind is made up already on there own plans. The liberal base who voted for them include guns owners..This should tell you they don't care about there voting bloc..They know this will end up in court ..Wasting tax payers money ..The courts time..And don't care about citizens in general. There campaign mantra was cut costs for citizens.But taxpayer cash will be used to defend there gun bills

I urge you to vote No on HB bills 207, 919 and 1094. The financial and legal ramafications are purely to remove gun ownership by citizens in VA. Undoubtedly Unconstitutional and meant to harass VA Citizens.

I disagree with all three of these bills. It only restricts my 2nd amendment rights by making it increasingly costly to exercise the right! I strongly oppose!

First I would like to thank each of you for your dedication to our Commonwealth, it is appreciated. In my opinion these bills do nothing to curb gun violence of any kind and only penalize law abiding citizens. None of them should be passed. This is just another attack on our constitutional rights. I agree there need to be some guide lines and laws that need to be investigated and I would support bills that truly do reduce violence. Please start looking at what will really reduce violence of any kind.

In Opposition of HB207 ***--- HB 207 would effectively impose a punitive $500 state tax on firearm suppressors, on top of any federal requirements, making it significantly more expensive for law-abiding Virginians to purchase a safety device. This disproportionately affects working-class citizens and creates an undue financial barrier to lawful ownership and safety. Additionally, suppressors are often used to reduce hearing damage and improve safety during recreational shooting and hunting. Imposing a high tax discourages the purchase of hearing-protective equipment, contrary to public safety interests. A big concern that I have is the Constitutionality of a steep excise tax targeted at lawfully-used sporting equipment which may be viewed as a de-facto restriction rather than a bona fide tax. Targeted taxes on a specific class of constitutional rights carry potential constitutional concerns and could be seen as an infringement on lawful exercise of those rights. Finally, with the recent federal elimination of the $200 tax on suppressors, HB 207 would reimpose a larger state level cost, effectively nullifying the intended benefit of federal reform and raising the overall cost to consumers. In Opposition to bills HB919 and HB1094 ****----- Imposing an 11 % excise tax on firearms and ammunition — and potentially another 11 % on top of that — penalizes law-abiding Virginians exercising their legal rights. Many individuals rely on firearms and ammunition for self-defense, hunting, and recreation. Excessive taxation makes these basic tools unaffordable for working families. Not to mention there is no clear evidence that additional excise taxes on lawfully purchased firearms or ammunition reduce violent crime. Criminals, by definition, do not purchase items through legal channels. Raising taxes on legal sales will not meaningfully impact criminal behavior. I am very focused on supporting businesses in our local communities in Virginia. Gun shops, shooting ranges, and related small businesses already operate on thin margins. Additional taxes undermine local commerce, discourage investment, and could lead to closures, layoffs, and reduced tourism associated with hunting and shooting sports. Additionally, HB 1094’s proposal to levy a separate 11 % tax on top of HB 919’s tax would double-tax Virginians purchasing firearms or ammunition. Stacking taxes in this way is especially punitive and places a disproportionate burden on rural and moderate-income residents. Any tax policy must balance revenue needs with respect for constitutional rights. Targeted taxation of a specific category of constitutionally protected items — like firearms — risks treating lawful owners as revenue sources rather than citizens with rights. In summary HB 919 directs funds to a ‘Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund,’ but there is limited clarity about how funds will be spent or evaluated. Without clear accountability and measurable outcomes, such taxation lacks transparency and taxpayer protections. These bills are blatantly disingenuous for law-abiding citizens who are simply exercising our God-given right to the 2nd Amendment. Please do not continue to push these bills forward.

So Virginia is essentially taxing a basic civil right. How will the Virginia Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund actually use this money? What have they accomplished other than syphon money from the pockets of Virginia's citizens, and probably lining the pockets of Virginia's elected elite? Show us the accomplishments. Show us how this is a solution to any problem regarding violence in Virginia or anywhere else. This is nothing more than a sin tax. Owning a gun is not a sin. It is simply another attempt to impede a basic civil right. What real Virginians and all Americans want are ideas and actions that address the root causes of violence, such as mental illness, social instability, or criminal organizations, including illegal alien gangs. We don't need taxes that merely steal people's money for a cause you obviously do not have a solution for, given a history of decades of attacks on lawful gun ownership that haven't prevented any violence whatsoever.

As a tax payer, voter, and law abiding citizen of this Commonwealth, I request you vote no on HB1094, HB919, HB207

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I oppose these racist bills! They prevent black and brown people from exercising their 2nd Amendment rights and from protecting themselves. The suppressor tax causes undue hearing damage by needlessly increasing the cost of a safety tool so these bills are not about safety but a denial of rights by emposing an undue financial burden on the very people it should be protecting.

I urge you to vote "NO" on all the above bills,. We are already taxed enough! I believe the new Governor pledged to make VA affordable and that would logically mean no more taxation!

Good morning, and thank you for the opportunity to speak. I’m here today to address why this proposed state tax on suppressors is unnecessary, economically harmful, and disconnected from public safety. At the federal level, lawmakers recently removed the $200 federal tax stamp that had long been attached to suppressors. That change recognized an important reality: suppressors are not criminal tools—they are safety devices. They reduce harmful noise, protect hearing, and lessen the impact on surrounding communities. Despite that federal shift, this proposal would move our state in the opposite direction by imposing a $500 state tax on the very same lawful item. Suppressors remain heavily regulated even without the federal tax. Purchasers are still subject to extensive background checks, fingerprinting, registration requirements, and approval processes through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Nothing about this bill improves oversight or accountability. It simply adds cost. That cost has real consequences. A $500 state tax will not deter criminals—because criminals do not acquire suppressors through lawful channels. What it will do is suppress economic activity inside this state. Consumers will purchase elsewhere, businesses will lose sales, and in-state manufacturers and dealers will be put at a competitive disadvantage. Lawful commerce will decline, while neighboring states benefit. This proposal effectively replaces a removed federal tax with a larger state-level penalty, undoing economic momentum rather than building on it. Any projected revenue must be weighed against reduced sales, lost jobs, and businesses choosing not to operate here at all. There is also a fairness issue. When the government stacks fees this high, it creates a system where lawful ownership is dictated by income. That is not public safety—it is a financial barrier imposed on compliance. Finally, this bill sets a troubling precedent. If the state can justify a $500 tax on suppressors today, it becomes easier to justify new taxes on other lawful equipment tomorrow. That kind of incremental policy creep erodes trust and punishes responsibility. Suppressors reduce noise. They protect hearing. They are already regulated. The federal government recognized this by removing its tax burden. This bill ignores that reality and replaces it with an even heavier one—at the expense of our state’s economy and law-abiding citizens. For those reasons, I urge you to oppose this proposal. Thank you for your time.

These bills are nothing more than punitive taxes for those wishing to exercise a Constitutionally-protected Natural Right. There is no grounds for these taxes any more than for taxing hundreds of dollars to check out a library book or having a poll tax of hundreds of dollars to vote. None of these will stand up to the inevitable court challenges, and Virginia tax payers will be on the hook to foot that bill as well. The Commonwealth went into 2026 with a $2,700,000,000 budget surplus, yet the General Assembly, under Democrat rule, seems determined to further tax the citizens. These bills are a disgrace and I strongly urge you to relegate each to the trashcan of history.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Will this bill also implement an excise on other constitutional rights? Why not implement an excise tax on paper, pens, pencils, typewriters, or printers used by authors exercising their First Amendment rights to express political dissent? An excise tax on a constitutionally-granted civil right is a 'sin tax.' It does not matter if you're taxing Second Amendment or First Amendment rights, or any civil right. Why implement a bill that discriminates against low-income citizens by adding unnecessary burdens and obstructions that discourage exercising their civil rights?

How did the authors of the bills such as a 500 dollar tax on suppressors,11 percent tax on ammo, create the numbers? Research ? Educated guess? Tax fairy? Similar to the dog walking tax...Nonsense tax meant to fund bloated programs...If as a delegate and if you have common sense you would vote against all of the anti gun bills..Citizens ,Lafave vs Fairfax county is a case of Fairfax county being sued in court by Lafave. Fairfax denied carry in parks.. The case had made its way to the supreme Court..Judge Roberts granted the writ on the shadow docket. Fairfax has until Feb 16 26 to answer ..If the case is accepted and plaintiff wins..This will affect other gun laws..

Very much opposed to these bills. Looks like the Dems in Richmond are determined to disarm their Black voters. Very obvious that if they truly believe getting a Drivers License is a burden on Black people then adding exorbitant taxes and licensing costs on firearms and ammunition must be a conscious effort on the Dem's part to disarm the Black population. This is very sad!

HB 207 - This bill contradicts current federal regulations. Oppose. HB 919 and 1094 - These bills preclude disadvantaged populations (who Democrats are supposed to care about) from purchasing a product they are permitted to purchase under the Second Amendment of the US Constitution and Article 1, Section 13 of the VA State Constitution. This financial burden may have the unintended consequence of forcing people toward illicit purchases. Oppose.

More contradiction from politicians. You asked for votes based on a promise of improving affordability, and out of the gate you want to tax everything including basic human rights. These taxes are unconstitutional and we will easily defeat them in court. We will also be requesting any monies collected be refunded.

I STRONGLY OPPOSE this bill. If you vote yes it will show that you are going against honest Virginians. Please vote NO!

Adding a higher tax on firearms will make it so only the rich can afford them. This will not stop crime in any way or form.

I oppose poll taxes which limit the rights of citizens to only wealthy individuals. The wealthy elite should not be the only ones allowed freedom.

his bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year

Greetings: I write to oppose bills HB207, HB919, and HB1094. In the interest of the people of Virginia, increasing taxes on suppressors and introducing 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth does not improve the economic environment of Va., reduce class difference between citizens, or improve well being. Reducing the burden to acquiring suppressors allows Virginians to practice lawful use of firearms in a way that does not cause undue disruption to neighbors and protects hearing for greater well-being. Businesses who can sell more suppressors would be better off, and thus more economically contributive, if they're able to sell without the burdensome tax. Concerning businesses, it is also an undue burden on manufacturers to shoulder this excise tax and likely pass it to customers. It is nearly equivalent enacting the same tax on publishers of media containing lawful speech simply for do so and thus making that media more burdensome to acquire by lawful citizens. In the case of all three bills, it does not benefit business, Virginians, or Virginia as a whole and they should be rejected outright.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

Charging an extraordinary tax or any tax on a device that will protect my hearing and the hearing of those around me is unconscionable. I oppose this tax and want to see a NO vote on bill HB 207. I oppose any new taxes on ammo, parts, supplies and guns. Be it at the retail, whole sale or manufacture level. This is a “sin tax,” that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Vote NO on HB 919 and HB 1094.

These bills do nothing but set up financial roadblocks for law abiding citizens to own firearm accessories under the guise of public safety. With a slew of incoming taxes already about to become law, we as Virginia citizens can quite literally not afford to have anymore unjust and unconstitutional laws reign supreme over our livelihoods and liberties.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. There are a lot of things that need to be addressed to make the Commonwealth better for it citizens. This is not one of them. Kind of funny you didn't run on these issues during the last election. You can be sure the next election will point out how you serve your major donors and not your constituents or the Constitution. I used to be a democrat and a significant donor. But ever since I realized that the Virginia democratic party supported racists like the last and current democratic governor. I would rather vote for a rock then any so called democrat.

As the Assistant Manager, Mid-Atlantic States for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), I respectfully urge you to oppose House Bill 919 (HB 919) and House Bill 1094 (HB 1094) – discriminatory legislation that would establish an 11% excise tax rate for firearms and ammunition manufacturers, intended to provide funding for the “Virginia Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund” which will likely result in the financial burden falling upon law abiding sportsmen and women. Virginia’s sportsmen and women are already the backbone of the funding structure for conservation efforts that benefit wildlife and their habitat throughout the Commonwealth, as well as the citizenry at large. The passage of financially discriminatory legislation like HB 919 and HB 1094, will likely result in an unintended and consequential diminishment of the state’s conservation funding.

Please vote no on HB1094 and HB919. An 11% tax is unfairly burdensome to the people Virginia. We should not have to pay extra for the right to protect ourselves. This is a direct attack on all people of moderate income, (which is most of your constituents), and is an attack on the 2nd amendment. I will actively rally others and donate to groups that seek to depose you if you continue your attack on law abiding Virginians

I’m writing to let my concerns known on all of these laws that are being voted upon. We as law aboding citizens are the only ones that will be affected and obey these laws. You want to decrease the time criminals do for horrible crimes such as murder and rape, but make law abiding citizens (that have done nothing wrong) into criminals. We obey the laws (most i see as unconstitutional) and then you turn around and make those rights into crimes and punishments. “Assault Weapons” as you refer to them have been around since the 1940s. Everything i have obtained, i did so legally. Now you want to make them illegal, and even go as far as to punish me for doing so. Why do we play these ignorant games. Legal one day, illegal another! We have right under the 2nd Amendment. How does doing any of this make people “safe”? Criminals will use whatever they do to commit crimes, cause that is their very nature. Disarm the public and allow criminals to take advantage of your laws. We will be less safe. How does charging $500 tax on suppressors make anyone safe? You are just mad they did away with the tax. We will still purchase these items, but you just punish us for doing so. You do nothing to make us safe , and you tax us on more than just firearms! You take, and take and take, yet provide nothing more! What happened to running on affordability? Taxes on dog grooming, home repairs, vehicle repairs, and so much more. Increase our taxes when our state was doing so well that we had a surplus if 2.2 billion dollars. You count on people being ignorant, but by doing that you educate them. I hope you can put you pride and egos aside, and realize we are starting to do better. All you will do is hurt your citizens with these numerous amount of laws and taxes. As politicians you are called upon to make our lives better. You cant make us safer by what you propose. You will only destroy our trust and our economy. We are not ignorant people that need to be taken care of. We need you to get out if our way and let us live our lives and protect ourselves. One last thing. Europe did this to their population and knife crimes skyrocketed. Everyone of you know this. Do the right thing and empower us to live our lives. Don't put more laws and taxes on us. There is more to Virginia than Richmond. As a veteran i have taken the same oath. I still honor that oath, as i hope you all do.

I’m writing to let my concerns known on all of these laws that are being voted upon. We as law aboding citizens are the only ones that will be affected and obey these laws. You want to decrease the time criminals do for horrible crimes such as murder and rape, but make law abiding citizens (that have done nothing wrong) into criminals. We obey the laws (most i see as unconstitutional) and then you turn around and make those rights into crimes and punishments. “Assault Weapons” as you refer to them have been around since the 1940s. Everything i have obtained, i did so legally. Now you want to make them illegal, and even go as far as to punish me for doing so. Why do we play these ignorant games. Legal one day, illegal another! We have right under the 2nd Amendment. How does doing any of this make people “safe”? Criminals will use whatever they do to commit crimes, cause that is their very nature. Disarm the public and allow criminals to take advantage of your laws. We will be less safe. How does charging $500 tax on suppressors make anyone safe? You are just mad they did away with the tax. We will still purchase these items, but you just punish us for doing so. You do nothing to make us safe , and you tax us on more than just firearms! You take, and take and take, yet provide nothing more! What happened to running on affordability? Taxes on dog grooming, home repairs, vehicle repairs, and so much more. Increase our taxes when our state was doing so well that we had a surplus if 2.2 billion dollars. You count on people being ignorant, but by doing that you educate them. I hope you can put you pride and egos aside, and realize we are starting to do better. All you will do is hurt your citizens with these numerous amount of laws and taxes. As politicians you are called upon to make our lives better. You cant make us safer by what you propose. You will only destroy our trust and our economy. We are not ignorant people that need to be taken care of. We need you to get out if our way and let us live our lives and protect ourselves. One last thing. Europe did this to their population and knife crimes skyrocketed. Everyone of you know this. Do the right thing and empower us to live our lives. Don't put more laws and taxes on us. There is more to Virginia than Richmond. As a veteran i have taken the same oath. I still honor that oath, as i hope you all do.

I suffer from persistent tinnitus as a result of considerable target shooting in my youth. While suppressors get a lot of attention in movies and TV, they aren't a significant factor in crime in Virginia. I'd ask the committee to avoid taxes designed to discourage their use.

HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094 violate constitutionally protected rights and disproportionately burden low-income Virginians, effectively converting a fundamental right into a privilege available only to those who can afford it. These bills infringe the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and Article I, §13 of the Virginia Constitution by placing substantial restrictions on the ability of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms without sufficient justification or narrow tailoring. The right to keep and bear arms has been recognized as an individual, fundamental right, and laws burdening its exercise must meet heightened constitutional scrutiny—standards these bills fail to satisfy. In addition to their constitutional defects, these measures impose significant financial barriers on firearm ownership and lawful carry. Fees, mandatory training costs, recurring renewals, compliance expenses, travel requirements, and the risk of legal penalties fall most heavily on low-income individuals. For many Virginians, these costs are not minor inconveniences but insurmountable obstacles to exercising a protected right. Low-income residents are often the most reliant on lawful self-defense, particularly in rural or high-crime areas where police response times may be longer. By increasing the cost and complexity of compliance, these bills undermine the ability of economically disadvantaged individuals to protect themselves and their families, while doing little to deter criminal behavior by those who already disregard the law. The government may not condition the exercise of a fundamental right on a person’s financial means. Just as poll taxes and excessive fees tied to speech or voting are unconstitutional, laws that price citizens out of exercising the right to keep and bear arms are equally impermissible. HB 207, HB 919, and HB 1094 create a two-tiered system of rights—one for those who can afford compliance and one for those who cannot. Laws that both violate constitutional protections and disproportionately burden the poor are unjust and should be rejected.

Do not vote for these bills

Why are you singling out my purchase of a Constitutionally-protected firearm or firearm accessory for special and excessive taxation? This has nothing to do with safety and everything to do with a desire to prevent honest people from obtaining firearms.

HB919 & HB1094 creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers. Our new Governor campaigned on reducing the cost of living for Virginians, although it seems this promise doesn't apply to law-abiding gun owners - and as it turns out, it doesn't apply to anybody given all the new taxes proposed. These bills amount to a 'sin tax' for a lawful activity - and a basic civil right. Why stop there? Let's relive the past and bring the poll tax back and raise even more revenue on the backs of the law abiding who are simply exercising a basic civil right. Let's raise yet more cash and pass an excise tax for book publishers as well!

HB919 & HB1094 creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers. Our new Governor campaigned on reducing the cost of living for Virginians, although it seems this promise doesn't apply to law-abiding gun owners - and as it turns out, it doesn't apply to anybody given all the new taxes proposed. These bills amount to a 'sin tax' for a lawful activity - and a basic civil right. Why stop there? Let's relive the past and bring the poll tax back and raise even more revenue on the backs of the law abiding who are simply exercising a basic civil right. Let's raise yet more cash and pass an excise tax for book publishers as well! As far as HB207 goes, the $500 tax on suppressors - this is yet another unwarranted punishment singling out gun owners. Owners of NFA-controlled items such as suppressors are some of the most law-abiding on Earth, yet they are punished - in advance - for simply wanting to preserve their hearing, either at the range or while engaging in lawful hunting activities. The last crime committed with a legally-owned suppressor was in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone' - lots of good those zones do - so this is hardly a pressing public safety issue. It is yet another solution in search of a problem, and is yet another slap in the face of the law-abiding. But that's what passes for governing these days when Democrats run things: punish the law abiding and reward the criminals.

I oppose any and all legislation that goes against the second amendment. The 2nd amendment is a right not a privilege that can be taken away period . How about dealing with the criminals and being harder on them like reinstating the death penalty!

I oppose the "sin" taxes you are placing on lawful citizens for purchases you oppose. There is not a single item in the Commonwealth the General Assembly has placed a 3 figure tax on. Additionally I do not understand how anyone can support taxing poorer people out of the opportunity to own a device that reduces traumatic brain injuries such as a suppressor.

This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing?

I am opposing HB207, HB919 and HB1094 (which are similar in argument). I do not understand the opposition to suppressors, and I cannot understand regulating them. They are not the silencers from the movies that let you kill people without being heard. They are legitimate safety devices that both quiet the noise of a gun and soften the blast, making shooting safer for everyone. This is the same as telling construction workers that they can buy helmets, but it's a $500 tax on top of the cost, and anyone who buys a helmet is a construction-obsessed freak that needs to be registered for everyone's safety. HB919 and HB 1094 I am opposing because "money to prevent gun violence" is not a plan, and increasing the cost of ammo (and guns) only ensures that people practice less, making them less safe. I would oppose any additional tax without a plan, like if there was an 11% tax on adopting kitten to "prevent cruelty to animals". Virginia needs taxes to run, I understand that. But I can't abide being taxed for nebulous reasons, especially since it makes a hobby that I love more expensive, when everything in Virginia is becoming more expensive.

Both HB919 and HB1094 are designed to deter CITIZENS from exercising an enumerated right as stated in the Virginia and US constitutions. Our elected representatives have taken an oath to support and defend these constitutions. No constitutional right should be subjected to taxation under any circumstance. Not only is this an abomination, it's a slippery slope. What's next, taxing the practice (or not practicing) of a religion? What about taxing abortions? Virginia will not always be ruled by one party, and the other side will likely retaliate. Importantly, it's time for our elected officials to recognize and respect the citizenry. All citizens are to be governed fairly. Their interests matter more than those of any political party. What is unfortunate is that our elected representatives are owned by their party bosses and contributors. They make no efforts to debate and seek reasonable compromises. None have the guts to even try.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

HB 207 What people see in the movies seldom translates to reality. Suppressors serve a legitimate purpose in firing range practice and hunting to reduce sound to a manageable level. They don't silence as shown in films. Simply owning a suppressor doesn’t cause a person to commit a crime. Like other inanimate objects, they can't act on their own and form criminal intent. Indeed, the last use of one in a crime was in 2019. They are already federally regulated and until recently had been heavily taxed. The amount of this tax comes to 160% in many cases. It is simply a cash grab and does not solve any real problem nor impact criminal behavior. OPPOSE HB 919 / 1094 Taxing firearms and ammunition to set up an unnecessary bureaucracy with a dubious mission and no measures of performance is a waste of money - our tax money. It taxes a basic civil right guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution. It sets a precedent for taxing other basic rights including free speech and religion. I also object to the term "gun violence" being used in written law as it is clearly partisan language aimed at political opponents.

I strongly opposed both bills that arbitrarily single out firearms and ammunition for an excise tax. These bills are contrary to your "affordability" platform and seek to deprive citizens of their right to self defense items.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. These efforts only harm law abiding gun owners and will have no appreciable benefits to the Commonwealth.

HB 919 & HB 1094 create a new 11 percent excise tax on the retail sale of firearms and ammunition, imposing a targeted and punitive burden on a single lawful industry while exempting government purchasers from the same costs. Framed as a revenue measure, this bill functions as a discriminatory tax that will harm small businesses, reduce lawful commerce, and drive economic activity out of the Commonwealth. The bills would significantly increase the cost of firearms and ammunition for consumers by stacking a new excise tax on top of existing sales and use taxes. This cost increase will fall hardest on working class Virginians, rural residents, and small independent retailers who operate on thin margins. Many small firearms dealers and ammunition vendors rely on volume sales to remain viable, and an additional 11 percent tax will price customers out of the market or push them to purchase from out of state competitors. HB 919 & HB 1094 also create a strong incentive for cross border commerce and tax avoidance. Neighboring states do not impose comparable excise taxes on firearms and ammunition, making it economically rational for consumers to shop elsewhere. This will reduce in state sales, lower overall tax collections from existing revenue streams, and weaken local businesses without delivering the projected fiscal benefits promised by the bills. These bills also place Virginia based manufacturers and retailers at a competitive disadvantage. Firearms manufacturers that engage in retail sales within the Commonwealth will face higher operating costs than out of state sellers who can ship products to Virginia consumers through alternative channels. This undermines economic development efforts and discourages manufacturers from expanding or maintaining operations in Virginia. HB 919 & HB 1094 further raises concerns about the stability and predictability of the tax base. Firearm and ammunition sales fluctuate significantly based on market conditions, supply chain disruptions, and consumer behavior. Relying on a volatile and shrinking tax base to fund ongoing government programs creates long term budgetary risk rather than sustainable revenue. Finally, the bills earmark all proceeds for a specific program while ignoring the broader economic harm caused to lawful businesses and employees. Selectively taxing a single industry to fund unrelated policy goals sets a dangerous precedent and opens the door to future industry specific taxes whenever political priorities shift. HB 919 & HB 1094 do not represent sound tax policy. It harms Virginia businesses, reduces consumer spending in state, destabilizes existing revenue streams, and drives economic activity elsewhere. For these reasons, these bills should be rejected.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. Virginia doesn't want these gun control bills, it's making national news even.

I STRONGLY OPPOSE ALL THREE OF THESE DEMOCRAT PARTY INSTIGATED ATTACKS ON CITIZEN'S SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS!!! The imposition of an 11% excess tax on firearms and ammunition (HB 919 and HB 1094) and a $500 tax on suppressors (HB207) are the equivalent of imposing a POLL TAX on the exercise of our constitution right to vote. They are simply another attempt to disarm the citizens of the Commonwealth, particularly members of our poorer communities, by levying punitive economic costs. SIC SEMPER TYRANNIS!

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I am STRONGLY OPPOSED to HB1094 and HB919 as they apply a tax to a constitutional right. This is equivalent to a poll tax. I must remind the ones who approve of this bill that this will also impact the poor and minorities the most causing inequality as to who is able to use their constitutional rights.

I strongly oppose the passing of these legislations. Not only are they unconstitutional. They have no merit in public safety in regards to deterring or preventing crime. These types of legislations have been challenged and defeated in court. HB1094 & HB 919: Taxation without Representation or justification. This raises ammunition and firearms prices to manufacturers and law abiding citizens tgat have no intention of committing crimes and that are using firearms for self- defense, hunting, target shooting, range practice, sporting clays and home defense. 2005, Congress passed the bipartisan Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) to prevent and curb never-ending series of lawsuits against manufacturers and retailers of firearms to hold them financially responsible for crimes committed using the weapons manufactured or sold by those entities. These taxes are a blatant attempt to circumvent federal law. HB207: Taxation without Representation or Justofication. The Federal Suppressor Tax: Overturned by the Bureau of Alcohol and Tobacco and deemed UnConstitutional. Suppressors are not firearms. They are not creating, inciting or doing crimes. They suppress noise, reduce harmful noise decibels and combined with hearing protection prevent hearing loss, increased medical costs on the users and spectators. They reduce noise pollution. They are less likely to spook livestock or pets when used for predator control, hunting and recreational shooting. They reduce noise at indoor and outdoor shooting ranges. They are not a gun. They are not dangerous or otherwise environmentally damaging. They are no different than a scope or a pair of ear muffs. The only difference is where they are attached to a firearm and that they are not worn by a person. The sales of hearing aides will go down and permanent hearing loss will be reduced by using suppressors and ear muff or ear plugs. That is a win for Medicare, Medicaid, the user, spectators, healthcare costs, health insurance providers and more. PUBLIC SAFETY is provided by using suppressors. Again, these legislations are just a means to increase taxes, they do not prevent or deter crimes and only serve to push a party narrative. They are purely a party push and serve only to prevent men and women from lowering their healthcare costs, reducing noise pollution, reducing health insurance claims, or reducing affordability. I hope the GOA, NRA, VCDL, Gun and Ammo manufacturers, Health insurance companies and combine forces and take you to court and win if these legislations are passed.

I strongly urge this committee to reject HB919 and HB1094. These bills create an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth that will be passed on to the citizen. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Because ammunition can be purchased across state lines, I would expect patrons will go to neighboring states or buy online. This will hurt revenue for Virginia and the businesses that operate in the Commonwealth.

HB207 - There should be no tax on suppressors, you are just making it more expensive for people to be able to shoot their firearms at a lower and safer decibel rating. Even if you use hearing protection, suppressors make shooting guns safer by further reducing the decibel count. And the amount of this tax is ridiculous , $500? This bill is really just trying to make suppressors, which are already expensive on their own, out of reach for people. And aren’t we all already tired of getting hit by more taxes? HB919 - There shouldn’t be an additional tax on firearms and ammunition, these are tools that we use to defend ourselves. Also a 11% tax is a ridiculous amount. Isn’t everyone already getting pinched in today’s economy? HB1094 - There shouldn’t be an additional tax on firearms and ammunition, these are tools that we use to defend ourselves. Also a 11% tax is a ridiculous amount. Isn’t everyone already getting pinched in today’s economy?

I urge you not to support HB207 ,HB919, and HB1094. Suppressors are beneficial for hunter's ear protection and for reducing noise from target practice in neighborhoods. Charging this excessive tax in HB207 is wrong and affects a basic civil right, plus it discriminates against the poor. Also, guns save lives! The excise tax in HB919 and HB1094 are an affront to law abiding citizens exercising their second amendment civil rights.

I am against these three bills as they are designed to punish fire arm owners. Owning fire arms is a constitutional right according to the second amendment, this is an underhanded way of curtailing our second amendment rights. What part of shall not be infringed do you not understand?

Please do not place additional tax on these items. It’s bad visibility to increase the financial burden for lower income citizens of the commonwealth to enjoy their lawful freedoms.

OPPOSE HB207, HB919, and HB1094. This bill is DISCRIMINATORY and makes hearing risk reduction unaffordable for mostly minority gun owners. This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing?

I am OPPOSED to HB919 and HB1094. Excessive taxation of a constitutionally protected right on top of already being a heavily taxed firearms market is unethical and immoral.

Please oppose this bill. Additional taxes on guns and ammo amounts to a sin tax… It will not help to stop gun crime. The only thing that will be accomplished is to put money in the government for leftist social engineering projects that I do not support. Where the heck is the AFFORDIBILITY that Gov. Spanberger campaigned on?

As a hunter, I am already paying a 13% excise tax for guns and ammunition through the Pittman-Robertson (PR) act. That tax produces a significant amount of the country's conservation funding and effectively doubles the states conservation allocated funding. Placing an additional tax on firearms and ammo will effectively lower our conservation funding from the PR act since people will not be able to afford the increased prices. Virginia citizens should not be subject to an additional tax and our DWR should not have to work with reduced conservation funding. As a hunter, I use a suppressor on my rifle which lowers the impact on my hearing. Research has shown the sounds from a rifle, even with hearing protection, are enough to cause damage. Since every citizen has the right to keep and bear arms, they should train frequently by shooting the firearm to remain proficient, and in the case of hunters, make an ethical shot. The recent tax removal on suppressors nationally was a step in the right direction for sportsman. Virginia would be taking a step backwards by making this safety device more difficult to purchase. Criminals looking to create a quieter shooting device will simply purchase an illegal fuel cannister and utilize it as a suppressor. This bill only hurts law abiding citizens.

The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing?

This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing? This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I seriously hope you oppose these bills as they are only going to accomplish a lengthy costly court issue and would provide no tangible results based on objective accurate history! Stop punishing the law abiders and I for 1 will remember during next election!

These bills are very reminiscent of Jim Crow Laws and will disproportionately infringe on the rights of lower income demographics. Creating a sin tax for our constitutional rights is a clear violation of your constituents civil rights. Expanding the red flag laws creates a huge potential for abuse and misuse for personal reasons. I have been in law enforcement for over a decade and I cannot think of one instance where the current red flag laws were used. I urge you to vote no on all matters regarding gun control and taxation. These laws do nothing to stop criminals from hurting people. They only place unlawful restrictions on responsible law abiding citizens. Passing and enforcing these laws is also blatantly in violation of US code section 242 of Title 18 Violation of constitutional rights under color of law.

Another money grab that punishes those who support the 2nd amendment, keep in mind that's not just the Republicans that are gun owners. It seems this bill is going after those with lesser incomes, making gun ownership too expensive. It appears that few have been to a gun range; if you had, you would have seen that there are owners. I don't think you should even be allowed to vote on something that you know very little about.

“As the next governor of Virginia, my overarching, unrelenting focus in 2026 will be making the commonwealth more affordable for our fellow Virginians,” -Spanberger. Creating or raising taxes in Virginia would be seen as a direct contradiction to Governor Abigail Spanberger’s 2026 "unrelenting focus" on affordability.

Another money grab that punishes those who support the 2nd amendment, keep in mind that's not just the Republicans that are gun owners. It seems this bill is going after those with lesser incomes, making gun ownership too expensive. It appears that few have been to a gun range; if you had, you would have seen that there are owners. I don't think you should even be allowed to vote on something that you know very little about.

Imposing an additional 11% tax on ammunition is totally unnecessary. Ammunition is very expensive as it is. Virginians need to be able to purchase ammunition without additional financial restrictions. We hunt and use it for sport as well as personal defense. Basically, you are attacking the second amendment in a roundabout way. As you are obviously thinking a gun without ammunition is basically useless. The states' budget should be sound without adding this additional tax. Dr. Gregory Gay

These bills will increase the cost of firearm + firearm accessory ownership in a country where people are already finding it hard to afford other basic necessities. People have it hard enough as is. Adding an extra $500 on the cost of suppressors and extra taxes on firearms and ammunition will make the 2nd amendment a privilege instead of a right. We do not charge women so they have a “privilege” to vote nor do we charge our fellow Americans for the “privilege” of not being a slave. This is because constitutionally we have the right to not be enslaved, have women vote, speak freely and practice our religions, and also to bear arms without any infringements. Adding what is essentially a sin tax to suppressors, firearms, and ammunition is unnecessary and unacceptable. I don’t support HB 1094 and HB 919

I oppose HB919 & HB1094 and I urge you to do the same. I fully support comments made by the Virginia Citizens Defense League and the NRA. This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. What other punitive taxes will be created? We are already taxed on these items as well as everything else we buy, along with utility taxes, fuel tax, personal property taxes, real estate taxes, and of course income tax. You pay to earn it and pay to spend it, even on necessities. Enough with all of the taxes and fees already!

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I do not support HB207, HB919, and HB 1094 and want you to vote against them. These bills seem like bills of attainder against Virgina gun owners. The economic impact will hurt the poorest of citizens disproportionately and represents a sin tax against civil rights. Additionally, The cost of litigation to defend these laws will cost the Commonwealth millions of dollars. These types of bills may be good candidates for AAG Dhillon of the DOJ Civil Rights Division to pursue. Please do not vote for these bad bills.

I am opposed to ANY law that limits my ability to carry, use, purchase, or own firearms. This includes the right to carry in public places or my vehicle, and it includes the right to defend myself. I am totally and completely opposed to ANY leftist agenda, and I am informing you, whoever you are, that there is a lot of anger out here over what's going on in our state, and indeed, in our nation and our world. It's become apparent that, far from what we voted for, Pres. Trump will continue to knuckle under to the left. Therefore, we shall have to fight for our rights in our state. Be warned: not everyone will knuckle under! There are some of us patriots left!

The recent passage of HB217 and related gun control measures in the Virginia House, including bans on so-called "assault firearms" and large-capacity magazines, represents a direct assault on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Virginians. These laws, which criminalize the sale, manufacture, and transfer of commonly owned firearms, ignore the Constitution's clear protections and the Founding Fathers' intent. The Second Amendment states: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." James Madison, the amendment's primary drafter, emphasized in Federalist No. 46 that an armed citizenry serves as a bulwark against tyranny, arguing that the federal government would be restrained by "the advantage of being armed which the Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation." Similarly, Thomas Jefferson wrote in a 1787 letter to William Stephens Smith that "what country can preserve its liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms." The Founders viewed the right to bear arms as essential for self-defense, hunting, and resisting oppression—not limited to outdated muskets, but evolving with technology. Supreme Court precedents affirm this. In District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), the Court held that the Second Amendment protects an individual's right to possess firearms for lawful purposes, including self-defense, and struck down D.C.'s handgun ban. Justice Scalia noted that it safeguards "arms in common use at the time," which today includes semi-automatic rifles like those targeted by HB217. McDonald v. Chicago (2010) extended this to the states via the Fourteenth Amendment. Most recently, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022) invalidated restrictive carry laws, requiring gun regulations to align with historical traditions—something Virginia's broad bans fail to do, as they prohibit weapons millions of Americans own without incident. These measures won't reduce crime—criminals ignore laws—but they disarm the innocent. Virginia's Founders, like Patrick Henry, warned against disarming the people: "Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect everyone who approaches that jewel." Lawmakers should repeal these unconstitutional infringements and uphold our heritage of freedom.

You have all betrayed your constituents with all of these new laws stripping our constitutional rights. Trying to make it so hard to own, carry, and purchase guns and ammunition that people just give up or cant afford it. Expansion of the Red Flag laws to people who are in no way qualified to make that decision to strip someone of their constitution rights. Giving that option especially to Spouses like no one would ever use that to satisfy a grudge against an ex. Also creating a system that punishes people for seeking help with medical counselors or lose their constitutional rights. The tax on ammunition alone is an obvious attempt to make it even harder for people to afford to practice with their firearms which is required for proficiency and price people out of purchasing them to begin with. The tax on suppressor when the fed stamp has been removed is just more obvious money grabbing and trying to make it restricted by putting a "poll tax" on it just like ammunition. Trying to outlaw the sale of commononly used firearms like AKs and ARs even though the Supreme Court has already ruled that the second amendment protects guns in common use. This is the first time ever I have been absolutely ashamed to be a Virginian in my entire life. You have all sold out the people and every one of you should lose your seat if you vote for these bills. Why do you need all these new taxes when you were handed a several billion dollar surplus at the end of last year? Answer is its not about the money, its about taking away guns. Try staying out of our wallets, homes, and lives for a change. How about fulfilling the promise of affordability that was made? How about reducing taxes instead of creating new ones? How about protecting the freedom of Virginians instead of trying to control us so you can use us like little cash shelters. Disgusting behavior and you should all be ashamed.

I oppose this bill because the proposed $500 tax on suppressors is excessive, punitive, and disconnected from reality. Suppressors are not tools of crime, they don’t make guns silent, they simply reduce noise to safer levels, similar to the difference between a jet engine and a jackhammer. They help protect hearing, reduce noise complaints, and make lawful target shooting more neighbor-friendly. The fact that the last known criminal misuse of a legally owned suppressor in Virginia was years ago, and in a gun-free zone, underscores how misplaced this tax is. For suppressors that cost around $300, a $500 tax amounts to a 160% surcharge, effectively pricing lower-income shooters and hunters out of a basic safety tool. This bill doesn’t improve public safety; it just penalizes responsible, law-abiding people for taking reasonable steps to reduce noise and protect their hearing.

I STRONGLY OPPOSE this bill

bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I am a Virginia resident, a home-based Federal Firearms Licensee, and a responsible gun owner. I strongly oppose HB919 and HB1094. These bills impose an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition sold into the Commonwealth. This type of tax functions as a “sin tax” on the exercise of a constitutional right, disproportionately affecting lower- and middle-income Virginians while placing small, independent dealers at a competitive disadvantage. Firearms ownership is lawful and responsible for the vast majority of citizens. Taxing firearms and ammunition to discourage access sets a dangerous precedent. We do not levy special excise taxes on books, newspapers, or internet access to fund First Amendment initiatives, nor should we tax the Second Amendment out of reach for ordinary citizens. From a business perspective, this tax will reduce sales, push customers to out-of-state or online markets, and harm small Virginia FFLs that already operate on thin margins. The long-term economic impact on lawful commerce and jobs should not be ignored. I respectfully ask the committee to reject these bills and pursue public-safety solutions that do not rely on selectively taxing a civil right or undermining small local businesses.

VOTE NO on HB207: This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing? VOTE NO on HB919 & HB1094: These bills creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

This bill creates an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing?

I am opposed to HB207. This bill creates a $500 tax on suppressors. The last case of a legally owned suppressor being used in a crime in Virginia was back in 2019 in a Virginia Beach 'gun-free zone.' Suppressors don't eliminate a gun's sound. They merely lower the sound to a more hearing-safe level. They reduce a sound-level as loud as a jet plane taking off down to the sound-level of a jackhammer. The reduced sound-level is more neighbor-friendly when target shooting. Suppressors also protect a hunter's hearing. Some suppressors are priced around $300, so this would be a 160% tax! What exactly does such a high tax achieve, other than purposely pricing poor people out of the market, discouraging target shooters from reducing the sound-level heard by neighbors, or making it harder for a hunter to protect his hearing? I am also opposed to HB919 and HB1094. These bills create an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers for gross sales into the Commonwealth. Is there going to be an excise tax for book publishers, raising the cost for people who want to exercise their First Amendment rights? This is a 'sin tax,' that affects a basic civil right. Owning a gun is not a sin. Guns are used to save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

I oppose the firearms and ammo tax increase bills HB919 HB 1094. This will be a heavy burden on gun owners across the commonwealth, (Law Enforcement included) who need firearm practice and proficiency. I oppose HB 207.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094.

I oppose these HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094. HB207: I oppose because I think reducing ambient noise is a public and environmental good. We should be encouraging people to use suppressors while they responsibly enjoy the use of their firearms. I hike and camping year round and it would be more pleasant for everyone if hunters used suppressed rifles. Hiking near trap and skeet and shooting ranges would also be nicer. Additionally, people who are at shooting ranges would benefit from reduced hearing risk. I suspect if suppressors were widely used, ranges would be safer as verbal communication would be improved. I do not think that suppressors will result in a new wave of crime. They are still NFA items and they have been affordable to responsible law abiding citizens for some time, suppressors make gunss much larger, generally less reliable, and harder to conceal. They also, as far as I know, reduce the sound to the level depicted in movies and people will still know that there are guns being used at a distance. We should be encouraging their use to increase hearing safety just like we are encouraging the disuse of obnoxious leaf blowers. HB 919 & HB 1094 (11% Excise Taxes): While the mission of the Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund is noble, these taxes punishment on responsible people to pay for the acts of irresponsible people. In general we do not have social corollary to this (we don't charge charge parents special taxes even though some of children do eventually go on to become problems to society). I would rather this initiative be funded through through broader means. Especially because reducing sales through taxes will just force criminals to achieve their violence through other means while reducing peoples ability to enjoy their freedoms and defend themselves.

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094

My Wife and I strongly oppose HB207 HB919 and HB1094.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094

My name is Jonathan Gatell, and I am a resident of West Springfield and a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. I am writing to respectfully urge you to oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094 currently under consideration in the House Finance Committee. As a lawful gun owner, I am deeply concerned that these bills represent an unconstitutional and regressive approach to public safety. Rather than addressing the root causes of violence, these measures create significant financial barriers that disenfranchise low-income Virginians and vulnerable communities. My specific concerns regarding this legislative package include: • HB 207 ($500 Suppressor Tax): This is a punitive tax on essential safety equipment. Contrary to popular media portrayals, suppressors are hearing-protection devices that reduce the report of a firearm to safer levels; they do not "silence" it. Imposing a $500 tax makes shooting sports and self-defense training more dangerous for those without significant disposable income. • HB 919 & HB 1094 (11% Excise Taxes): While the mission of the Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund is noble, funding it through a flat 11% excise tax is fundamentally regressive. Much like the "poll taxes" of the past, these costs disproportionately impact lower-income and minority citizens. These are the very groups who are historically the most frequent targets of hate crimes and who may rely on affordable means of self-defense. By imposing these "sin taxes" on a constitutionally protected right, the Commonwealth risks alienating moderate and progressive gun owners who support responsible safety measures but oppose economic discrimination. Rights should not be luxuries reserved only for the wealthy. I appreciate your dedication to mitigating gun violence, but I ask that you seek solutions that do not involve regressive taxation or the financial disenfranchisement of your constituents.

I am a resident of Arlington and a dedicated Democrat. My commitment to the party is deep; I have worked on campaigns for Gerry Connolly and Terry McAuliffe, and even traveled to canvas for Raphael Warnock during his special election. I am writing to you today because I am deeply invested in our party’s success and its commitment to progressive values. However, I am writing to strongly urge you to oppose HB207, HB919, and HB1094. As a lawful gun owner, I believe these bills are not only electorally risky but also fundamentally regressive. At a time when we are fighting to protect vulnerable populations, these measures would disproportionately disenfranchise the very people who need protection most. My specific concerns include: HB207 ($500 Suppressor Tax): This is a punitive tax on safety equipment. Suppressors are vital tools for hearing protection at the range. Pricing them out of reach for average citizens does not improve public safety; it simply makes shooting sports more dangerous for those without significant disposable income. HB919 & HB1094 (11% Firearm and Ammunition Taxes): While I support the mission of the Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund, funding it through a flat 11% excise tax is a regressive move. Similar to "poll taxes" of the past, these costs overwhelmingly impact lower-income and minority communities—groups that are historically the most frequent targets of hate crimes and political targeting. By validating the "anti-gun" labels often used by the opposition, these bills risk alienating moderate and progressive gun owners alike. More importantly, they create a financial barrier to a constitutional right that will primarily affect those in the most vulnerable economic tiers. I appreciate the focus on mitigating gun violence, but I ask that you seek solutions that do not involve regressive taxation or the disenfranchisement of your own constituents. Sincerely, Samuel Reid Lipton Arlington, VA

I oppose these HB207, HB919, HB1094

I oppose HB207, HB909, HB1094. These bills unnecessarily increase costs for law abiding firearm owners and create a situation where only the wealthy can afford to exercise their rights.

I oppose these bills because it punishes lawful gun owners by making them pay more to practice responsible gun ownership. Being a responsible gun owner requires commitment and training and that means using a considerable amount of ammo at the range. 90% of firearms used in crime are either bought illegally or stolen - so taxes would not apply and they would not help curb crime or violence in any way. Again, this is a bill that punishes responsible gun owners. We all want to same thing - to end gun violence in Virginia. These bills will not do that.

I oppose HB919 and HB1094. These bills impose a regressive 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition on top of Virginia’s existing sales tax. This proposal primarily taxes lawful, regulated retail purchases, not the people committing gun violence. It is fundamentally unfair to make responsible Virginians pay a special surcharge for crimes they did not commit. If the goal is to fund violence-prevention efforts, the funding mechanism should target violent offenders, not lawful commerce. Instead, the General Assembly should consider approaches that require those convicted of gun crimes to contribute (e.g., restitution or work programs), rather than pricing out lawful citizens who are trying to train and remain proficient and safe. The bill is also likely to be counterproductive for revenue. Tripling the effective tax burden on these products increases incentives to buy out of state, delay purchases, or avoid the market entirely. This means Virginia could plausibly collect less revenue, not more, while harming in-state small businesses. Even the Department of Taxation describes its revenue estimate as speculative and the actual revenue impact as uncertain. These bills also expand government bureaucracy and impose new compliance burdens on Virginia businesses. The fiscal impact statement for HB1094 indicates additional administrative costs, including the need for dedicated personnel to administer the new tax. That is more overhead and paperwork for both the Commonwealth and lawful dealers and vendors, on top of an already uncertain revenue stream. Supporters cite Everytown’s data that “gun violence costs Virginia $14.2B each year, of which $288.3M is paid by taxpayers.” However, that figure is not representative of the Virginia General Fund burden. It is a modeled estimate that bundles combined federal, state, and local government spending and includes federal programs and long-term assumption-based items, so it should not be presented as what Virginia taxpayers or the Virginia General Fund actually pay. Virginia’s JLARC analysis, based on Virginia claims data, suggests a much smaller direct public medical cost burden. JLARC found about $28.5M in paid claims for initial treatment over 2021–2023, with Medicaid paying about 80% of that, and noted those Medicaid costs were less than 0.05% of total Medicaid claim expenditures. That implies that 0.05% of annual Medicaid claim spending is on the order of about $8M per year. Even if you still accept the $288.3M figure, it is unfairly being used to justify punishing lawful buyers. Virginia’s overall spending is on the order of tens of billions per year (e.g., $87.5B total spending reported for FY2025), making $288.3M roughly about 0.3% of annual spending. That does not justify creating a new, targeted sin-tax on constitutionally protected, highly regulated purchases by law-abiding residents. Virginia should reject HB919 and HB1094 and focus on targeted enforcement against violent offenders and evidence-based interventions, without taxing responsible citizens and undermining lawful training and safety.

I support this bill because gun violence costs Virginia $14.2 billion each year, of which $288.3 million is paid by taxpayers.

The slew of new "taxes" as well as the attack on firearm's enthusiasts and the 2nd amendment will solidify my moving out of state once passed. It's become very clear that we are fundamentally opposed to each others views and ways of life. However, rather than adopt a live and let live approach like myself, you seek to undermine and impose your views on me. How dare you, how dare you single out citizens and residents of this great commonwealth and demand they pay additional "taxes" on things like firearms and ammunition when they already pay the state sales tax. What's troubling is you will lie and state a myriad of reasons why these additional taxes exist, but the reality is you're just trying to inconvenience and restrict gun owners. You just don't have the integrity to come out and say it. Good riddance.

I am 41 years old and despite never being in the military, being exposed to excessively loud noises throughout my life, and having no genetic preconditions for hearing loss, I have tinnitus. It started to creep up within the first year I began training with a pistol for the purpose of self-defense after being jumped and attacked no less than 5 times in the 2 years prior to buying that pistol. When I went to the range, I wore ear plugs AND ear muffs (the latter costing nearly $300 in an attempt to get the best of the best) and STILL I realized quickly that, despite being in a quiet room, I was hearing loud ringing. This combination is capable of reducing the concussive noise of a gunshot only minimally. My doctor says there's really no possible other source other than my exposure to firearms. My exposure that was only a tiny fraction of what soldiers are subjected to, what shooting sports enthusiasts are subjected to, and so forth. Had I been able to afford a suppressor and $200 NFA tax at the time, I would have been able to reduce the decibel output of my pistol by up to 35 dB. Combine that with my hearing protection, and I would have NEVER come to have tinnitus from shooting sports AND everyone else in the range with me would have been subjected to far less noise as well. A suppressor should be easily accessible, taxed only at the prevailing consumer goods sales tax, and require no government approval so that there are no barriers to protecting the hearing of a shooter and those around them while exercising one's 2nd amendment rights. It seems as if a $500 tax on suppressors is a retaliatory action not grounded in any kind of premise of safety or health. It would limit once again access to what is fundamentally a hearing protection device to wealthy VA residents. Is this the message Democrats want to send: "We want guns to be as loud as possible and if you are keen to be respectful to your own hearing and others, we will force you to pay $500!" That doesn't land well with anyone. It fundamentally makes no sense, especially since in Europe, South Africa, and other parts of the world you can simply walk into a store, buy a suppressor (you're encouraged to do so), and walk out in as much time as it takes to drink a cup of coffee. This tax obviously solves nothing, will not raise revenue fairly and justly, and will likely cost VA more to defend than it rakes in as suppressors are already commonly $1,000 or more. Anti-2A laws do not reduce crime in the same way anti-reproductive rights laws do not reduce abortions... in both instances the result is worse. Stop infringing on Constitutional rights and start focusing on what matters.

The Second Amendment protects an individual, fundamental right to keep and bear arms. The US Supreme Court has made clear that this right is not second-class and may not be burdened through indirect means that would be impermissible if applied to other enumerated rights. District of Columbia v. Heller, 554 U.S. 570 (2008) – Recognized an individual right to possess arms “in common use” for lawful purposes, including self-defense. McDonald v. City of Chicago, 561 U.S. 742 (2010) – Incorporated the Second Amendment against the states. New York State Rifle & Pistol Ass’n v. Bruen, 597 U.S. ___ (2022) – Rejected interest-balancing and held that firearm regulations must be consistent with the Nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation. Under Bruen, modern firearm regulations—including taxation schemes—must be justified by a well-established historical analogue from the Founding or Reconstruction eras. Revenue-raising measures that single out constitutionally protected conduct fail this test. Opposition to HOUSE BILL NO. 1094: Firearm and Ammunition Manufacturer Excise Tax (11%) HB 1094 imposes a targeted excise tax on firearms and ammunition manufacturers based solely on the exercise of a constitutionally protected right. The Supreme Court has long rejected the idea that governments may tax fundamental rights out of reach: Murdock v. Pennsylvania, 319 U.S. 105 (1943): “A state may not impose a charge for the enjoyment of a right granted by the federal constitution.” Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections, 383 U.S. 663 (1966): Poll taxes are unconstitutional because wealth or payment cannot condition the exercise of a fundamental right. Just as a state could not impose a special tax on printing presses or church collections, it may not impose a punitive, industry-specific tax on arms and ammunition—the means necessary to exercise the Second Amendment. There is no historical tradition of special excise taxes on firearms or ammunition at the Founding era designed to discourage ownership or fund social programs. General sales taxes that applied neutrally across goods are not comparable. HB 1094 is: 1) Targeted, not general 2) Punitive, not neutral 3) Behavior-modifying, not revenue-incidental Courts applying Bruen have increasingly scrutinized firearm taxes in California, Illinois, and New York, with multiple challenges arguing that these laws are modern inventions lacking historical support. Pro-gun organizations consistently note that firearm and ammunition taxes disproportionately burden low-income citizens, particularly those living in high-crime areas who rely most on lawful self-defense. Law enforcement exemptions underscore the inequity: the state acknowledges firearms are necessary for safety—but only if the government is the user. Adoption of HOUSE BILL NO. 1094 opens the Commonwealth of Virginia to legal action that would inflict an undue and unecessary burden on the citizens of the Commonwealth.

These bills are as anti-gun and anti-2nd amendment at their core. Many bills related to firearms this legislative session at least use the cover of safety to cover their anti-gun intention, these bills HB 207, SB 763, HB 919 and HB 1094 do no such thing. They just financially punish law abiding Virginians for using firearms to hunt, target shoot and protect their families. The result of these bills is that law-abiding Virginians will simple go to another state to make a firearm related purchase, and no one will come to Virginia to make a purchaser. The result, at a minimum, will be: 1. reducing state and local sales tax revenue 2. impacting small independent firearm business by reducing their revenue with the potential for staff reductions or closure I do not support this bill nor do the 200+ active members, 2000+ inactive members of Northern Virginia's largest hunting association - The National Sportsman Association.

As the Assistant Manager, Mid-Atlantic States for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), I respectfully urge you to oppose House Bill 1094 (HB 1094) – discriminatory legislation that would establish an 11% excise tax rate for firearms and ammunition manufacturers, intended to provide funding for the “Virginia Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund” which will likely result in the financial burden falling upon law abiding sportsmen and women. Virginia’s sportsmen and women are already the backbone of the funding structure for conservation efforts that benefit wildlife and their habitat throughout the Commonwealth, as well as the citizenry at large. The passage of financially discriminatory legislation like HB 1094, will likely result in an unintended and consequential diminishment of the state’s conservation funding.

Abjectly opposed to ANY new taxes for ANY reason. We have an overabundance of money in this state as it is and are taxed enough.

Oppose.

As a Virginia resident and voter, I am writing to let you know that I strongly oppose HB207 and HB 1094. These bills are punitive and will hurt law abiding Virginians financially and make it more difficult for them to carry out their constitutional right to bear arms. I hope you will reconsider and not impose these financial constraints and limitations on law abiding citizens.

I strongly oppose this bill.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the recently proposed bills on gun control. While I understand the intent behind these bills—to enhance public safety—I firmly believe that they will have unintended consequences that infringe on the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens. The Second Amendment guarantees "the right of individuals to keep and bear arms", and it is a fundamental part of what makes this country free. These bills being proposed would place unnecessary and burdensome restrictions on responsible gun owners, making it harder for Virginians to exercise their rights in a lawful and safe manner. Rather than focusing on restricting access to firearms, I urge the General Assembly to consider measures that target criminals and illegal activities, such as enforcing stricter penalties for those who use firearms in the commission of crimes, or improving background checks for gun purchases. It is essential to address the root causes of violence, such as mental health issues and gang-related activity, rather than punishing responsible gun owners who follow the law. Furthermore, these proposed bills could create significant logistical challenges for gun owners, particularly those who rely on their firearms for self-defense, hunting, or recreational activities. The financial burden and potential legal ramifications of complying with these new regulations would be overwhelming for many Virginians. I strongly urge you to reconsider these proposals and to focus on policies that protect both our rights and our communities. I trust that you will make the best decision for all Virginians, and I sincerely hope that you will oppose these bills.

I am a sworn law enforcement officer in the Commonwealth of Virginia, a gun owner, and a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article I, Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution. I respectfully oppose House Bill 1094, which would impose an 11 percent excise tax on the sale of firearms and ammunition, directing revenue to the Virginia Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund. Democrats campaigned in recent elections on a message of affordability for everyday Virginians, promising policies that reduce financial burdens. An 11 percent tax on firearms and ammunition—on top of existing taxes—is precisely the opposite of affordability. This proposal makes it more expensive for Virginians to engage in constitutionally protected activities, disproportionately harming middle- and lower-income residents who rely on affordable ammunition for training, self-defense, and lawful recreation. The right to keep and bear arms is not contingent on wealth. Supreme Court precedent establishes that the Second Amendment protects an individual right, and laws imposing substantial financial burdens risk chilling its exercise. By sharply increasing the cost of firearms and ammunition, HB 1094 penalizes lawful gun ownership and interferes with Virginians’ ability to exercise a right recognized in District of Columbia v. Heller and incorporated in McDonald v. Chicago. Targeted taxation on constitutionally protected conduct is inconsistent with civil rights principles. Public safety is best served when citizens can train regularly and maintain proficiency. Ammunition and firearms are essential for lawful self-defense and hunting traditions deeply rooted in Virginia’s culture. A steep excise tax undermines those traditions by making common purchases significantly more costly, without evidence that it reduces crime or enhances public safety. HB 1094 also creates perverse incentives. Responsible gun owners contribute to public safety by training and understanding firearms. Making lawful ownership more expensive encourages purchasing outside Virginia or unregulated acquisition, undermining compliance with background checks and safety measures. Revenue may fund intervention programs, but evidence does not show that taxing lawful owners deters violent crime; offenders rarely comply with tax regimes. Affordability is about reducing barriers, not erecting them. This bill contradicts stated affordability goals, placing an undue burden on Virginians who seek to exercise constitutionally protected rights responsibly. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the members of this committee to oppose House Bill 1094. It is regressive, punitive, and inconsistent with principles of affordability, constitutional rights, and effective public safety policy.

As a lifelong resident of Virginia, I am writing to voice my opposition to HB1094. An 11% tax on firearms and ammunition is an exceptionally punitive fee for Virginians to pay in addition to existing local sales tax. Firearms proficiency is a perishable skill and requires consistent practice and training to retain competency. This additional tax would substantially impact the ability for average Virginians as well as law enforcement to be able to afford to maintain a regular cadence of training and proficiency. In addition this will drive Virginians to purchase their ammunition in neighboring states that do not have this tax taking revenue away from local Virginian businesses. The impact of this bill would be an overall net negative for Virginians and this bill should not be passed.

This bill adds an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition. Is there any other constitutional right that has a tax like this levied on it? No tax on book publishers exercising their First Amendment right? This is a "sin" tax, plain and simple. Owning a firearm is not a sin; it is protected under the Second Amendment. Guns save hundreds of thousands of lives every year. This tax will only hurt "working-class" Virginians, as it may price them out of being able to exercise their God-given right to self-defense. I strongly urge you not to support this bill.

Qcells and Goodleap testify in support of HB 1132, which would allow Virginia localities to use a portion of data center tax revenues to deploy solar and storage in local communities. As one of the largest solar manufacturers investing in U.S. domestic production, Qcells see HB 1132 as a pragmatic way to translate Virginia’s data center growth into bill savings for residents through the deployment of solar and storage. By explicitly tying a portion of data center tax receipts to customer-facing clean energy investments, communities impacted by data centers will have more opportunities to add distributed solar and storage to their residences—giving them long-term protection from energy bill increases. Not only can deployment of rooftop solar and storage help families and businesses with energy affordability, it can also be scaled quickly, in months not years. As more households are able to deploy solar and storage communities are benefitting from reduced peak load and avoided transmission costs, bill savings that can be reinvested in their local economies, and jobs created by supporting American manufacturing and installation. Qcells stands ready to deploy our American made solar panels in local communities to deliver savings to residents. We respectfully urge the Appropriations Committee to support HB 1132 and the General Assembly to enact it into law. The bill offers Virginia a fiscally responsible way to harness data center growth to expand access to affordable energy, especially for low- and moderate-income households. Qcells and Goodleap stand ready to work with local governments, utilities, and community organizations to ensure that the programs enabled by HB 1132 deliver tangible benefits to Virginia families and support a resilient, domestically supplied energy economy in the Commonwealth.

I'm Nathan Soules, a founding member of Zero Carbon Virginia, and I live in Leesburg, VA. ZCV supports HB897, HB1132, and HB1133. The growing impact of data centers on our grid is too large to ignore. As the JLARC study on data centers found, it would be “very difficult” to build enough electric infrastructure to support unconstrained demand for data centers. HB897 leverages the tax exemption given to data centers to incentivize use of clean energy. Replacing diesel and gas generators with cleaner alternatives reduces greenhouse gas emissions and local impacts on noise and air quality. Requiring purchase of RECs helps Virginia stay on track with the goals of the VCEA’s RPS. Efficiency standards will help reduce electricity demand. Last year, many of the clean energy incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act were rolled back. HB1132 and HB1133 both help to mitigate the loss of those federal incentives. This helps Virginia continue to meet its VCEA targets and preserve jobs in the growing solar and energy storage industries. Investment in these low cost technologies will ultimately lower costs for rate payers. Residential solar and energy storage can reduce the need for additional electric transmission and generation, particularly if coordinated with a virtual power plant. Utility-scale solar and energy storage are critical for the transition away from fossil fuel generation.

Chair Hernandez, The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce supports the following bills: HB1135 HB1133 HB946 HB504 The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce opposes the following bill: - HB897 Thank you for your time. Kind Regards, Theo Stamatis Government Relations Manager Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce 703.314.3519 tstamatis@loudounchamber.org

I'm Nathan Soules, a founding member of Zero Carbon Virginia, and I live in Leesburg, VA. ZCV supports HB897, HB1132, and HB1133. The growing impact of data centers on our grid is too large to ignore. As the JLARC study on data centers found, it would be “very difficult” to build enough electric infrastructure to support unconstrained demand for data centers. HB897 leverages the tax exemption given to data centers to incentivize use of clean energy. Replacing diesel and gas generators with cleaner alternatives reduces greenhouse gas emissions and local impacts on noise and air quality. Requiring purchase of RECs helps Virginia stay on track with the goals of the VCEA’s RPS. Efficiency standards will help reduce electricity demand. Last year, many of the clean energy incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act were rolled back. HB1132 and HB1133 both help to mitigate the loss of those federal incentives. This helps Virginia continue to meet its VCEA targets and preserve jobs in the growing solar and energy storage industries. Investment in these low cost technologies will ultimately lower costs for rate payers. Residential solar and energy storage can reduce the need for additional electric transmission and generation, particularly if coordinated with a virtual power plant. Utility-scale solar and energy storage are critical for the transition away from fossil fuel generation.

I oppose this bill. The general assembly should not give tax breaks to solar developers. The majority of rural taxpayers are against utility scale solar being sited on agricultural and timberland. Corporations and wealthy individuals do not deserve tax breaks at the expense of the lower and middle class citizens. This tax break is being proposed at the same time as the General Assembly is proposing new taxes on working Virginians: Taxes on Amazon deliveries, haircuts, lawn care services, oil changes, gym membership, tire rotation, Plumbing services, and other general services. a better way to give a solar tax break would provide a tax break for every Virginian to put solar panels on their roof and tax breaks for businesses to put solar panels on their roofs and parking lots.

Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) supports HB1461. NOVA and all Virginia community colleges are ready to scale up semiconductor workforce programs, but we need industry partners with local facilities to make these programs viable and relevant. The semiconductor ITC will catalyze such investments that create this virtuous cycle. I urge you to support HB 1461 / SB 786. This legislation will position Virginia to compete for transformative economic investments while ensuring that our community college students have direct access to the career opportunities those investments create.

I live in Southwestern Virginia and I stand firmly against all these Bills the Democrats are trying to pass, especially my 2nd Amendment rights. I am a law abiding citizen with a concealed weapons permit. I use to work for the Department Of Corrections. I have had a lot of firearms training. I am safe and respect others. These gun laws that are trying to be passed is tyrannical gun laws. I was given this right by my Forefathers, "The right to bear arms Shall Not Be INFRINGED"! It's the law of the land. Democrats are about going against our rights. I will never ever vote for one single Democrat until they go back to the Party of the 1980's and before. Now they are against American Patriots and values. I oppose all gun laws. I oppose all the taxes as well that the Democrats get rich from us poor people. Please reconsider taking people's rights because that will have big consequences at Election time. Sandford Fields

I am writing on behalf of the Virginia Airport Operators Council (VAOC), which proudly represents the 66 public-use airports across the Commonwealth. Virginia’s airports serve as critical economic gateways, providing safe, secure, and efficient access to both our largest cities and our smallest communities. The VAOC is committed to ensuring that Virginia’s airport system remains commercially healthy and continues to safely serve the flying public. The VAOC opposes HB1474. As we understand it, this legislation would amend the Code of Virginia to exempt aircraft dealers from paying sales and use tax on the purchase or commercial use of aircraft. The aircraft sales and use tax is a one-time 2 percent tax assessed on the purchase price of an aircraft and represents the single largest revenue source for the Aviation Special Fund. This fund directly supports the Virginia Department of Aviation’s operating budget and grant programs that address critical airport needs, including maintenance, security, facilities and equipment, air service development, and navigation aids. Collectively, these programs are essential to maintaining the safety, capacity, and security of Virginia’s aviation system. To date, there has been no substantial or quantifiable analysis demonstrating that an exemption of this nature would provide a meaningful benefit to aviation in the Commonwealth that would offset the resulting loss of revenue. The Aviation Special Fund is an essential and reliable funding resource for all public-use airports in Virginia. For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to protect the Aviation Special Fund and oppose HB1474.

I deeply oppose these bills

Virginia was in good shape, we had a surplus of money that Gov Youngkin gave back to the taxpayers. And NOW you want to raise taxes on everything. There are alot of us on a fixed income and can't afford the taxes. These taxes are no necessary unless it is putting money into your pockets. This needs to stop or we will vote you out, after we do a recall. You are not doing what is best for the taxpayers in Virginia. You are doing this for you and how much money it will put in your pockets. STOP THE RAISING OF ANY TAXES ON VIRGINIANS.

These proposed bills are a blatant attack on our 2nd amendment rights and personal liberties. They will do nothing to stop crime but as usual, restrict the law abiding responsible gun owners. Why don't you stop making it easier for criminals to walk our streets and at the same time try to restrict our ability to defend our families and ourselves??? You are allowed to be protected by armed security but what you're saying in these proposals is that we don't have the same right.

I oppose All of the above Gun Bills. I am not a criminal nor have I ever been one. Our Government can Not protect me my property, or my Family. I have a God given right to bear and own guns Also 2A rights. You work for ME ! You are supposed to represent ME ! Stop with All the Over reach . Let me tell you what you should be doing , You should be passing bills to benefit the American people like Health care, economy, Get rid of these taxes that benefit your needs !! Finish deporting these illegal immigrants you brought into this country !! Again No on Gun bills .

The 2nd amendment does not in any way shape or form all these changes constitutional. Every bill you are pushing through house is definition of infringement. Also the first amendment grants all US citizens the freedom of speech . As a Christian I am subject to hate speech from others and have no avenue of protection other than my 2 nd amendment rights !

I oppose ALL of the above gun bills. I am not a criminal never have been . Our Goverment can not protect me , my family or my property I have a God given right to bear arms also 2A rights .You work for ME !! You are suppose to represent ME ! Stop the over reach . Do something that benefits the American citizens , Healthcare, economy, get rid of All these taxes you have burdened the people with , Finish deporting illegal immigrates .

As a retired federal officer (Not ICE), I am concerned about a few things; the proposed magazine and firearms ban, leaving Virginia citizens unprotected against criminals who will not follow the laws, and the retired Federal, State and Local officers who DO NOT have the ability to purchase their duty firearm and 15 round magazines. As retired officers, most of us are still quietly acting as Sheepdogs, still watching over our neighbors and strangers. Not exempting retired officers from the magazine ban can be catastrophic, whether you realize it or not. While some state and local officers have the ability to purchase their duty firearm and 15 round mags, some municipalities and all Federal officers do NOT have this luxury, and it will create a disparity among those who can purchase and keep their 15 round magazines and those who cannot by either law or policy. The US Constitution does not regulate what firearms Americans can keep, with some exceptions; but it DOES permit US Citizens to keep & bear arms. Historically kept firearms have been recognized by the high courts as not illegal and have ruled in favor of this. Like many, I feel that this "gun grab" as it's called was rushed through too quickly without considering the retirees who have served this state with honor and dignity. I urge you to not just ban 15 round mags for our citizens, but especially for the retirees. The way the language is currently written, the 15 round ban will not affect officers who have the ability to purchase their duty firearms upon retirement, but would not apply to many others including all federal officers & agents. Not a good way to keep your voters; and could be considered biased by the high courts. We are all the same; we served and protected. Thank you.

I oppose all of these bills as they are against to 2nd Amendment. More importantly, do you really believe that criminals will follow these laws? No. They will continue to commit crimes and if necessary go out of state to acquire what they need. Law abiding patriots, when armed are the best deterrent to crime! I also assume that you folks will not have personal protection details and if you do they will not be allowed to carry the type of firearms you are trying to outlaw!

❌ Oppose HB 207 (Keys-Gamarra) HB 207 imposes additional firearm restrictions that burden lawful gun owners while doing nothing to address violent crime. Laws that target possession rather than criminal misuse undermine constitutional protections and divert attention from enforcing existing laws against violent offenders. ❌ Oppose HB 566 (McNamara) HB 566 expands government control over lawful firearm ownership without historical justification or evidence of effectiveness. The Second Amendment protects the right of ordinary citizens to keep and bear arms, and broad regulatory schemes like this fail constitutional scrutiny under the Supreme Court’s Bruen framework. ❌ Oppose HB 919 (Lopez) HB 919 penalizes lawful firearm possession and commerce rather than criminal behavior. Public safety is not enhanced by placing additional legal and financial barriers on responsible citizens, and this bill risks chilling the exercise of a fundamental constitutional right. ❌ Oppose HB 954 (Watts) HB 954 advances sweeping firearm restrictions that are unsupported by historical precedent. Under the Constitution, rights cannot be limited simply because lawmakers believe regulation is preferable—restrictions must be narrowly tailored and historically grounded, which this bill is not. ❌ Oppose HB 1008 (Tran) HB 1008 infringes on the rights of law-abiding Virginians by expanding firearm prohibitions beyond constitutional limits. Collective punishment and preemptive restrictions violate due process and ignore the Supreme Court’s clear instruction that firearm regulations must align with historical tradition. ❌ Oppose HB 1094 (Laufer) HB 1094 imposes excessive regulatory burdens that disproportionately impact responsible gun owners while failing to deter criminal violence. The Constitution does not allow rights to be conditioned on convenience, compliance costs, or bureaucratic discretion. ❌ Oppose HB 1362 (McNamara) HB 1362 further erodes the Second Amendment by restricting access to commonly owned firearms and lawful activities. Policies that treat constitutional rights as privileges undermine public trust and expose the Commonwealth to costly and unnecessary litigation. ❌ Oppose HB 1474 (O’Quinn) HB 1474 expands government authority over private firearm ownership in ways that conflict with constitutional protections and established legal precedent. Virginia should focus on punishing criminal misuse of firearms—not restricting the rights of citizens who obey the law.

I oppose HB207, HB919 and HB1094!!!

To All Involved, We the People DO NOT want all of the tyrannically oppressive bills you are considering to be passed. Especially the ones related to OUR second amendment rights. No where in the constitution is a state given the authority to restrict any of OUR rights and freedoms guaranteed under the constitution. To make any attempt to do so is dancing precariously close to the line of exercising DESPOTISM over the people. Which is exactly why the founding fathers ensured we had a bill of rights written and ratified. At least take some time to seriously think through the implications of any legislation you may want to consider. V/R Charles

What happened to the campaign promise of cost cutting, lower taxes and making life more affordable for citizens? Defending the bills in court will use taxpayers cash, court time ,labor..Raising taxes on items you don't like and stating costs will lowered is a lie..from the general assembly to the governors office..Honor your oath and correct your lies with truth..Vote no on gun bills..

Politicians system of tax , spend, waste, is a system created by them ..This has been around for years A corrupt system of power. A group think of nonsense..Where they can only see there side and are blinded to any common sense..Will not listen to anyone and if they seem interested it is just to look good in front of everyone..They pretend to listen.But there mind is made up already on there own plans. The liberal base who voted for them include guns owners..This should tell you they don't care about there voting bloc..They know this will end up in court ..Wasting tax payers money ..The courts time..And don't care about citizens in general. There campaign mantra was cut costs for citizens.But taxpayer cash will be used to defend there gun bills

I oppose these racist bills! They prevent black and brown people from exercising their 2nd Amendment rights and from protecting themselves. The suppressor tax causes undue hearing damage by needlessly increasing the cost of a safety tool so these bills are not about safety but a denial of rights by emposing an undue financial burden on the very people it should be protecting.

I urge you to vote "NO" on all the above bills,. We are already taxed enough! I believe the new Governor pledged to make VA affordable and that would logically mean no more taxation!

Good morning, and thank you for the opportunity to speak. I’m here today to address why this proposed state tax on suppressors is unnecessary, economically harmful, and disconnected from public safety. At the federal level, lawmakers recently removed the $200 federal tax stamp that had long been attached to suppressors. That change recognized an important reality: suppressors are not criminal tools—they are safety devices. They reduce harmful noise, protect hearing, and lessen the impact on surrounding communities. Despite that federal shift, this proposal would move our state in the opposite direction by imposing a $500 state tax on the very same lawful item. Suppressors remain heavily regulated even without the federal tax. Purchasers are still subject to extensive background checks, fingerprinting, registration requirements, and approval processes through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Nothing about this bill improves oversight or accountability. It simply adds cost. That cost has real consequences. A $500 state tax will not deter criminals—because criminals do not acquire suppressors through lawful channels. What it will do is suppress economic activity inside this state. Consumers will purchase elsewhere, businesses will lose sales, and in-state manufacturers and dealers will be put at a competitive disadvantage. Lawful commerce will decline, while neighboring states benefit. This proposal effectively replaces a removed federal tax with a larger state-level penalty, undoing economic momentum rather than building on it. Any projected revenue must be weighed against reduced sales, lost jobs, and businesses choosing not to operate here at all. There is also a fairness issue. When the government stacks fees this high, it creates a system where lawful ownership is dictated by income. That is not public safety—it is a financial barrier imposed on compliance. Finally, this bill sets a troubling precedent. If the state can justify a $500 tax on suppressors today, it becomes easier to justify new taxes on other lawful equipment tomorrow. That kind of incremental policy creep erodes trust and punishes responsibility. Suppressors reduce noise. They protect hearing. They are already regulated. The federal government recognized this by removing its tax burden. This bill ignores that reality and replaces it with an even heavier one—at the expense of our state’s economy and law-abiding citizens. For those reasons, I urge you to oppose this proposal. Thank you for your time.

How did the authors of the bills such as a 500 dollar tax on suppressors,11 percent tax on ammo, create the numbers? Research ? Educated guess? Tax fairy? Similar to the dog walking tax...Nonsense tax meant to fund bloated programs...If as a delegate and if you have common sense you would vote against all of the anti gun bills..Citizens ,Lafave vs Fairfax county is a case of Fairfax county being sued in court by Lafave. Fairfax denied carry in parks.. The case had made its way to the supreme Court..Judge Roberts granted the writ on the shadow docket. Fairfax has until Feb 16 26 to answer ..If the case is accepted and plaintiff wins..This will affect other gun laws..

Adding a higher tax on firearms will make it so only the rich can afford them. This will not stop crime in any way or form.

I’m writing to let my concerns known on all of these laws that are being voted upon. We as law aboding citizens are the only ones that will be affected and obey these laws. You want to decrease the time criminals do for horrible crimes such as murder and rape, but make law abiding citizens (that have done nothing wrong) into criminals. We obey the laws (most i see as unconstitutional) and then you turn around and make those rights into crimes and punishments. “Assault Weapons” as you refer to them have been around since the 1940s. Everything i have obtained, i did so legally. Now you want to make them illegal, and even go as far as to punish me for doing so. Why do we play these ignorant games. Legal one day, illegal another! We have right under the 2nd Amendment. How does doing any of this make people “safe”? Criminals will use whatever they do to commit crimes, cause that is their very nature. Disarm the public and allow criminals to take advantage of your laws. We will be less safe. How does charging $500 tax on suppressors make anyone safe? You are just mad they did away with the tax. We will still purchase these items, but you just punish us for doing so. You do nothing to make us safe , and you tax us on more than just firearms! You take, and take and take, yet provide nothing more! What happened to running on affordability? Taxes on dog grooming, home repairs, vehicle repairs, and so much more. Increase our taxes when our state was doing so well that we had a surplus if 2.2 billion dollars. You count on people being ignorant, but by doing that you educate them. I hope you can put you pride and egos aside, and realize we are starting to do better. All you will do is hurt your citizens with these numerous amount of laws and taxes. As politicians you are called upon to make our lives better. You cant make us safer by what you propose. You will only destroy our trust and our economy. We are not ignorant people that need to be taken care of. We need you to get out if our way and let us live our lives and protect ourselves. One last thing. Europe did this to their population and knife crimes skyrocketed. Everyone of you know this. Do the right thing and empower us to live our lives. Don't put more laws and taxes on us. There is more to Virginia than Richmond. As a veteran i have taken the same oath. I still honor that oath, as i hope you all do.

I’m writing to let my concerns known on all of these laws that are being voted upon. We as law aboding citizens are the only ones that will be affected and obey these laws. You want to decrease the time criminals do for horrible crimes such as murder and rape, but make law abiding citizens (that have done nothing wrong) into criminals. We obey the laws (most i see as unconstitutional) and then you turn around and make those rights into crimes and punishments. “Assault Weapons” as you refer to them have been around since the 1940s. Everything i have obtained, i did so legally. Now you want to make them illegal, and even go as far as to punish me for doing so. Why do we play these ignorant games. Legal one day, illegal another! We have right under the 2nd Amendment. How does doing any of this make people “safe”? Criminals will use whatever they do to commit crimes, cause that is their very nature. Disarm the public and allow criminals to take advantage of your laws. We will be less safe. How does charging $500 tax on suppressors make anyone safe? You are just mad they did away with the tax. We will still purchase these items, but you just punish us for doing so. You do nothing to make us safe , and you tax us on more than just firearms! You take, and take and take, yet provide nothing more! What happened to running on affordability? Taxes on dog grooming, home repairs, vehicle repairs, and so much more. Increase our taxes when our state was doing so well that we had a surplus if 2.2 billion dollars. You count on people being ignorant, but by doing that you educate them. I hope you can put you pride and egos aside, and realize we are starting to do better. All you will do is hurt your citizens with these numerous amount of laws and taxes. As politicians you are called upon to make our lives better. You cant make us safer by what you propose. You will only destroy our trust and our economy. We are not ignorant people that need to be taken care of. We need you to get out if our way and let us live our lives and protect ourselves. One last thing. Europe did this to their population and knife crimes skyrocketed. Everyone of you know this. Do the right thing and empower us to live our lives. Don't put more laws and taxes on us. There is more to Virginia than Richmond. As a veteran i have taken the same oath. I still honor that oath, as i hope you all do.

Do not vote for these bills

I oppose any and all legislation that goes against the second amendment. The 2nd amendment is a right not a privilege that can be taken away period . How about dealing with the criminals and being harder on them like reinstating the death penalty!

I am opposed to ANY law that limits my ability to carry, use, purchase, or own firearms. This includes the right to carry in public places or my vehicle, and it includes the right to defend myself. I am totally and completely opposed to ANY leftist agenda, and I am informing you, whoever you are, that there is a lot of anger out here over what's going on in our state, and indeed, in our nation and our world. It's become apparent that, far from what we voted for, Pres. Trump will continue to knuckle under to the left. Therefore, we shall have to fight for our rights in our state. Be warned: not everyone will knuckle under! There are some of us patriots left!

The recent passage of HB217 and related gun control measures in the Virginia House, including bans on so-called "assault firearms" and large-capacity magazines, represents a direct assault on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Virginians. These laws, which criminalize the sale, manufacture, and transfer of commonly owned firearms, ignore the Constitution's clear protections and the Founding Fathers' intent. The Second Amendment states: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." James Madison, the amendment's primary drafter, emphasized in Federalist No. 46 that an armed citizenry serves as a bulwark against tyranny, arguing that the federal government would be restrained by "the advantage of being armed which the Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation." Similarly, Thomas Jefferson wrote in a 1787 letter to William Stephens Smith that "what country can preserve its liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms." The Founders viewed the right to bear arms as essential for self-defense, hunting, and resisting oppression—not limited to outdated muskets, but evolving with technology. Supreme Court precedents affirm this. In District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), the Court held that the Second Amendment protects an individual's right to possess firearms for lawful purposes, including self-defense, and struck down D.C.'s handgun ban. Justice Scalia noted that it safeguards "arms in common use at the time," which today includes semi-automatic rifles like those targeted by HB217. McDonald v. Chicago (2010) extended this to the states via the Fourteenth Amendment. Most recently, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022) invalidated restrictive carry laws, requiring gun regulations to align with historical traditions—something Virginia's broad bans fail to do, as they prohibit weapons millions of Americans own without incident. These measures won't reduce crime—criminals ignore laws—but they disarm the innocent. Virginia's Founders, like Patrick Henry, warned against disarming the people: "Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect everyone who approaches that jewel." Lawmakers should repeal these unconstitutional infringements and uphold our heritage of freedom.

You have all betrayed your constituents with all of these new laws stripping our constitutional rights. Trying to make it so hard to own, carry, and purchase guns and ammunition that people just give up or cant afford it. Expansion of the Red Flag laws to people who are in no way qualified to make that decision to strip someone of their constitution rights. Giving that option especially to Spouses like no one would ever use that to satisfy a grudge against an ex. Also creating a system that punishes people for seeking help with medical counselors or lose their constitutional rights. The tax on ammunition alone is an obvious attempt to make it even harder for people to afford to practice with their firearms which is required for proficiency and price people out of purchasing them to begin with. The tax on suppressor when the fed stamp has been removed is just more obvious money grabbing and trying to make it restricted by putting a "poll tax" on it just like ammunition. Trying to outlaw the sale of commononly used firearms like AKs and ARs even though the Supreme Court has already ruled that the second amendment protects guns in common use. This is the first time ever I have been absolutely ashamed to be a Virginian in my entire life. You have all sold out the people and every one of you should lose your seat if you vote for these bills. Why do you need all these new taxes when you were handed a several billion dollar surplus at the end of last year? Answer is its not about the money, its about taking away guns. Try staying out of our wallets, homes, and lives for a change. How about fulfilling the promise of affordability that was made? How about reducing taxes instead of creating new ones? How about protecting the freedom of Virginians instead of trying to control us so you can use us like little cash shelters. Disgusting behavior and you should all be ashamed.