Jay Jones launches unit to enforce new firearm industry law

Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones has created the Firearms Accountability & Industry Responsibility Unit, or FAIR Unit, to investigate and bring civil enforcement actions against firearm industry members that violate a new state law, the Office of the Attorney General said in a weekly roundup.

The unit is housed within the office's Civil and Criminal Justice & Public Safety divisions. It will investigate activity across the Commonwealth and can file suits to stop violations and seek damages and restitution, among other relief.

The law, passed by the General Assembly in 2026 (HB21 and SB27), signed by Gov. Abigail Spanberger in April and in effect since July 1, says a firearm industry member may not, through unlawful or unreasonable conduct, knowingly create, maintain or contribute to a public nuisance through the sale, manufacture, importation or marketing of a firearm-related product. It also allows victims of gun violence or public officials to bring civil lawsuits against industry members who violate it.

"Creating safer communities starts with holding dealers and manufacturers accountable when they are reckless with the lives of Virginians," Jones said. "The FAIR Unit will play an integral role in building lasting public safety in our communities."

Gretchen Nygaard, deputy attorney general for civil litigation, said the office is now "empowered to bring cases against bad actors in the firearms sale and manufacturing industries" for the first time.

A Department of Planning and Budget fiscal analysis estimated the law would require three additional positions in the Attorney General's Office and $409,864 a year in general fund spending beginning in fiscal 2027, according to coverage cited by the office.

Source: Office of the Attorney General of Virginia, https://www.oag.state.va.us/media-center/news-releases/3120-what-virginians-are-seeing-attorney-general-jay-jones-shares-weekly-roundup-of-actions-taken-15