New Laws Take Effect July 1 in Virginia

Several new Virginia laws take effect July first, and while many are aimed at statewide issues, a handful could have a direct impact on residents here on the Eastern Shore.

For hunters and gun owners, one of the most significant changes is a new law restricting future sales and transfers of certain semi-automatic firearms and high-capacity magazines. Current owners can generally keep firearms they already legally possess, but anyone planning to buy, sell, or transfer affected firearms should review the new requirements carefully. However on Thursday a Lancaster County judge issued a temporary injunction to not require the Virginia State Police to enforce the new law. There have been several lawsuits filed opposing the new legislation.

Small businesses across Accomack and Northampton counties will also see changes in hiring practices. New pay-transparency rules will require employers to provide more information about wages and compensation during the hiring process. Businesses may also face new restrictions on asking applicants about their salary history.

Another major change is Virginia’s Clean Slate law. The measure allows eligible criminal records to be sealed from public view, potentially helping thousands of Virginians gain access to employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Supporters say the law could be especially helpful in communities where employers continue to face worker shortages.

Drivers should also be aware of a new program targeting extreme speeding offenses. In certain cases, judges may require repeat reckless drivers to install technology that limits a vehicle’s speed rather than impose other penalties.

And for restaurants, seafood markets, and takeout businesses, Virginia continues its phase-out of certain Styrofoam food containers, meaning some businesses may need to switch to alternative packaging.

While many of the new laws won’t be immediately noticeable to most residents, changes involving firearms, hiring practices, criminal record sealing, and traffic enforcement are expected to have the greatest impact here on Virginia’s Eastern Shore.