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A change in conceal and carry reciprocity agreements that Virginia had with other states means permit holders from the affected states will no longer be allowed to carry concealed weapons in the state of Virginia as of Feb. 1. Marines and their families should check state and local laws before traveling to ensure their permits will be recognized.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Antwaun L. Jefferson

Virginia changes conceal carry reciprocity agreements with 25 states

28 Jan 2016 | J. Elise Van Pool Marine Corps Base Quantico

A recent action by the Attorney General of Virginia’s office has resulted in a change in conceal and carry reciprocity agreements that Virginia had with other states.

The action identified several states that, in the opinion of the attorney general, have laws that are not sufficient to prevent someone who is disqualified under Virginia law from receiving a concealed handgun permit.

This will mean that permit holders from the affected states will no longer be allowed to carry concealed weapons in the state of Virginia as of Feb. 1. Those who are found to be illegally concealing a weapon could be convicted of a Class One misdemeanor after the first offense. Subsequent offenses could result in felony convictions.

The following states are affected by the recent decision: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

This decision may also mean that Virginia permit holders may not have their permit recognized by these states.

Marines and their families should check state and local laws before traveling to ensure their permits will be recognized.

The following states will continue to have their permits recognized by Virginia: Florida, Louisiana, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Wyoming.

For a Class One misdemeanor, the penalty is confinement in jail for not more than 12 months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.

Marines that violate Virginia’s concealed carry laws could also face consequences within the Marine Corps. Each case will be handled on an individual basis. Commanders have options ranging from taking no additional action, to administrative measures such as a page 11/6105 negative counseling and administrative separation.

Commanders may also take punitive actions such as nonjudicial punishment or court-martial.

Aside from affirmative command action, further potential collateral consequences could include mandatory adverse fitness reports, revocation of security clearances, promotion delays and other similar actions.

Service members and their family members affected by the change should obtain a Virginia permit if they wish to carry a concealed weapon in the state. State residents and service members stationed here may obtain a permit by submitting an application and proof of handgun competency to the county circuit court where they live. For more information on the application procedures and requirements please visit the Virginia State Police website at http://www.vsp.state.va.us/Firearms_

ResidentConcealed.shtm.

The change does not affect Marine Corps Base Quantico, which prohibits carrying concealed weapons on base by Order 8000.1B (Weapons Order).

Marine Corps Base Quantico