DOJ files lawsuit against Virginia over ‘assault weapon’ ban

Published July 1, 2026 12:11pm ET | Updated July 1, 2026 1:52pm ET



The Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Virginia on Wednesday over a proposed “assault weapons” ban signed by Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) that was previously meant to take effect the same day.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon filed the lawsuit against the commonwealth and the Virginia State Police, alleging Virginia “besmirched” the Second Amendment by passing such legislation.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.