Virginians overwhelmingly oppose Democratic lawmakers’ proposed gun-control legislation, according to a new poll conducted Feb. 16–17 by Quantus Insights.

With Democrats controlling the General Assembly and Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) signaling her support for “commonsense gun violence prevention bills,” the state is poised to advance measures including a ban on so-called “assault firearms” and high-capacity magazines, a five-day waiting period on all firearm sales, and an 11% tax on firearms and ammunition.

The survey found that 84% of registered voters consider “the right to keep and bear arms a fundamental freedom protected by the U.S. Constitution.” Sixty-five percent said gun-control laws primarily burden law-abiding citizens while criminals ignore them.

Specific proposals also drew opposition: 60% opposed a ban on commonly owned firearms labeled as “assault weapons,” 58% opposed limiting magazine capacity to 10 rounds, and 65% opposed the proposed state tax on guns and ammunition. Support for the “assault weapons” ban was highest among Democrats at 60%, compared with 15% of Republicans.

Law enforcement officials have voiced strong criticism. Amherst County Sheriff LJ Ayers called the measures “appalling” and said they would “only impact law-abiding citizens, not the criminals who will inevitably find workarounds.” Other sheriffs from Campbell, Henry, Appomattox, and Bedford Counties have issued similar statements.

The poll reflects a broad backlash among voters as Richmond moves forward with legislation that could dramatically restrict gun rights in the state.