Ryan Mehaffey, a Marine veteran and prosecutor in Virginia, is opposing a new gun regulation endorsed by Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger. The bill prohibits future sales and manufacturing of many semiautomatic firearms, labeling them as ‘assault weapons.’ It also restricts magazines capable of holding more than 15 rounds. Mehaffey, serving as the commonwealth attorney for Spotsylvania County, refuses to implement the law, claiming it is unconstitutional.
The regulation, signed into law with a set implementation date of this July, coincides with the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence. Mehaffey addressed a letter to Spotsylvania Sheriff Roger Harris declaring the ban unenforceable under the law.
The statement from Spanberger’s office describes the regulation as a measure to enhance safety for families, communities, and law enforcement officers. Spanberger stated, ‘Firearms designed to cause maximum harm should not be on our streets.’ Despite acknowledging that her suggested amendment to exempt certain hunting firearms was not accepted, she intends to work on refining the law’s language.
In an interview, Mehaffey explained that the Second Amendment not only guarantees individual freedoms but also secures community defense through a well-regulated militia. He argues that the right to bear arms is crucial for public defense, citing Virginia’s legal and historical precedents. In the past, citizens were expected to have muskets; today, it resembles modern infantry weapon norms.
Mehaffey maintains that the Second Amendment sanctions basic infantry arms, not weapons of mass destruction but necessary rifles for local defense. He finds substantial support within his community and from peers like Phillip Blevins, another prosecutor who refuses to enact the regulation. Several lawsuits from gun-rights advocates including the NRA challenge the ban as unconstitutional.
Blevins asserts the ultimate decision lies with the judiciary but stands firm in upholding what he deems constitutionally right. He stresses that his stance transcends politics, focusing on defending constitutional rights.
Mehaffey concluded by reiterating the supremacy of the Second Amendment and the Virginia Constitution over enacted laws. His efforts reflect a commitment to his office and the rights of the people he serves, expecting all government officials to honor their duty to the Constitution similarly.
Fox News Digital reached out to Governor Spanberger for further comments.