(HB183)<font size=-1>
<p>GOVERNOR'S VETO</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<ul><p>Pursuant to Article V, Section 6, of the Constitution of
Virginia, I veto House Bill 183, which relates to the storage of firearms where
a minor or person prohibiting a firearm is present.</p>

</ul><ul><p>This legislation would limit individuals' access to firearms in
their homes. </p>

</ul><ul><p>A similar law was deemed unconstitutional in District of
Columbia v. Heller. The court ruled that mandates on storage or trigger locks
that make it impractical for citizens to use firearms for the lawful purpose of
self-defense are unconstitutional.</p>

</ul><ul><p>The proposed language could prove problematic in cases of
necessary home defense when firearm access may be crucial. Further, it would
completely disarm individuals who cannot afford a storage device. While the
intent may not be to strip the poorest Virginians of their right to
self-defense, the proposal would price them out of the market for a fundamental
right.</p>

</ul><ul><p>The suggested exemption for carrying weapons is impractical,
for example, while sleeping or doing household chores. This exemption leaves
individuals with only one option for self-defense; such a requirement would
lead to law-abiding Virginians carrying their weapons irresponsibly and
dangerously.</p>

</ul><ul><p>Accordingly, I veto this bill. &nbsp;</p>

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