Virginia sheriffs push back on proposed gun restrictions, citing Second Amendment rights

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AMHERST COUNTY, Va. (WSET) — Proposed gun-control legislation moving through the Virginia General Assembly is drawing pushback from local sheriffs across Central and Southside Virginia, with several taking to social media to pledge to uphold the Constitution and defend Second Amendment rights.
The measures under debate range from banning assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines to holding gun manufacturers and dealers accountable under new “responsible conduct” standards.
Local law enforcement officials say the proposals threaten a way of life in rural Virginia, where firearms are commonly used for hunting, sport and self-defense.
READ MORE: Lynchburg City Council reaffirms 2nd Amendment Sanctuary status for the city
Amherst County Sheriff L.J. Ayers is among those speaking out against the legislation, arguing lawmakers are overlooking a right secured by those who died on the battlefield.
“Never in their lifetime did they think they gave their life up for something that they believe in, and now it's being torn apart, infringed upon however you may consider it, it's appalling,” Ayers said. "The changes they're making or want to make to our Second Amendment right would only impact law-abiding citizens."

"The criminals we deal with in law enforcement each and every day-- it will not change one thing for them, they will have access to guns through black market, drug house, where they're getting them today, they'll continue getting them tomorrow," he said.
Sheriffs in Campbell, Henry, Appomattox and Bedford counties are also expressing concerns about the legislation.
A similar debate unfolded after the 2019 election, when hundreds of Virginia counties and cities declared themselves “Second Amendment sanctuaries” in response to potential gun restrictions.