Bills Pass To Ease Restrictions On Concealed Weapons

Two bills that would allow handgun owners to lock weapons in their cars and permit those with concealed carry permits to bring firearms into restaurants were approved in Virginia's Senate on Tuesday.

The bills that passed the Senate Tuesday were introduced by Sens. Jill Vogel of Fauquier, and Emmett Hanger Jr. of Augusta.

The bills would allow handgun owners to keep weapons

inside their vehicles if stored in a lock box and allow individuals with concealed carry permits to take firearms into restaurants that serve alcohol as long as the gun carrier does not consume alcohol.

Vogel's bill passed 24-16; Hanger's passed 22-18. Last year, Hanger's so-called guns in bars bill passed by General Assembly chambers but was vetoed by Gov. Timothy M. Kaine. Governor Bob McDonnell is not expected to veto these bills.

Local restauraunt owner Randy Lewis of the Island House says hes not too worried about these bills.

"Theres a lot of test and things involved to get your concealed weapons permit, its a lengthy process," said Lewis, "the people that go through the process of getting the concealed weapons permit are not the ones you have to worry about. The people who buy their guns illegally are."

Senator Ralph Northam voted against the bill while Delegate Lynwood Lewis voted for the House equivalent, HB 505.

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