With Virginia citizen’s facing an onslaught of anti-gun bills from the state’s Democat-led General Assembly, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed as many as 30 anti-gun bills designed to restrict the gun rights of law-abiding people and misguidedly empower criminals. The 30 proposed bills had sparked considerable debate across the state. While it was believed Youngkin would do exactly as he did—veto most of the bills and recommend amendments to others—he had remained publicly vague about what action he would take leading up to the vetoes.

Among the vetoed proposals were measures that sought to impose a five-day waiting period for gun purchases and to restrict the sale, manufacture and transfer of so-called “assault firearms” created on or after July 1 of this year. Such legislation would have also set age limits for firearms purchasing and possession and banned high-capacity magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds. Critics of the bills, including Governor Youngkin, questioned their constitutionality and effectiveness in addressing public safety concerns, particularly in relation to mass shootings.