Democrats in the Virginia General Assembly moved to remove a carveout that would have exempted lawmakers from a firearms restriction after facing backlash from Republicans and gun rights advocates. The reversal came Saturday as legislators advanced a broader package of gun-control measures to Democratic Gov. Abby Spanberger.

The controversy centered on House Bill 110, which initially included language allowing members of the General Assembly to leave a handgun in an unattended vehicle in designated legislative parking areas, despite imposing restrictions on the general public. Critics argued the provision created a special privilege for lawmakers.

Republican State Sen. Richard Stuart pushed back during debate, saying, “We are no better than anybody else, and we should never vote for a bill that gives us a special privilege.” The exemption was ultimately removed in conference committee before the measure was sent forward for final passage, according to The Center Square.

The revised legislation passed along party-line votes as Democrats continued advancing a broader gun-control agenda, including a proposed ban on so-called “assault weapons” and measures expanding civil liability for firearm manufacturers. The legislative shift follows Democrats gaining ground in Richmond after Spanberger’s gubernatorial victory.

Republican lawmakers argued the measures target law-abiding citizens rather than criminals. Del. Wren Williams said existing laws were sufficient to address recent incidents, adding that the new proposals “make criminals out of Virginians who follow the laws.”

Gun rights groups also criticized the legislation. The National Rifle Association called the package “egregious,” with NRA-ILA Executive Director John Commerford accusing lawmakers of embracing a “rules for thee but not for me” approach before the exemption was removed.

The episode has intensified debate over gun policy in Virginia, with opponents framing the initial exemption as evidence of unequal treatment under the law and supporters maintaining the broader measures are necessary for public safety.