Virginia Senate advances ‘red flag’ gun law, despite second amendment rally the day before

On Tuesday the Virginia Senate advanced legislation that would allow authorities to take guns away from people deemed dangerous to themselves or others.

The Democratic-led Senate gave preliminary approval to approved the so-called “red flag” law. SB 240 would create a process for attorneys and law enforcement to file emergency orders prohibiting a person from purchasing, possessing or transferring a firearm if they pose “a substantial risk of injury to himself or others.”

The move comes a day after tens of thousands of gun-rights activists rallied peacefully at the state Capitol on Monday protesting the proposed anti-gun legislation.

The measure is set for a final vote in the Senate before going to the House.

Republicans blasted the bill as an assault on gun rights and civil liberties.

Democrats said the bill was a thoughtful measure that would preserve due process while also protecting people against potential gun violence.