Cole's Bill Would Allow Guns at Private Schools

Virginia Delegate Mark Cole (R-VA-88) has introduced a bill that would allow possession of a stun weapon, knife or other weapon, or a firearm on private or religious school property.

HB 114 would amend and reenact § 18.2-308.1 of the Code of Virginia, relating to possession of firearm, etc., on school property; private or religious schools.  The summary of the bill reads:

"Eliminates the crimes of possession on the property of a private or religious elementary, middle, or high school; a school bus owned or operated by such school; or any property being used for functions or extracurricular activities sponsored by such school of a stun weapon, knife, or other weapon (currently a Class 1 misdemeanor) or a firearm (currently a Class 6 felony). The bill does not affect the criminal penalties for the possession of such weapons on public school property."

Cole has received contributions from the NRA.

The Virginia General Assembly convenes on Jan. 8, 2014.

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