(The Center Square) – Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones said Monday his office will begin enforcing the firearm industry accountability law when it takes effect July 1, saying it gives the state new tools to pursue firearm businesses that break the law.

Speaking at a Richmond press conference on Monday ahead of implementation on Wednesday of next week, Jones said the law allows the Office of the Attorney General to investigate alleged violations, seek court orders and bring civil lawsuits against firearm manufacturers, distributors and dealers that fail to meet standards established under state law.

“This legislation represents a significant step forward in protecting the public, promoting responsible practices and enhancing public safety,” Jones said. “Accountability is not a radical idea. Accountability makes up the foundation of our legal system.”

Jones said the law is aimed at businesses that break the law, not responsible gun owners or firearms dealers that follow it.

“This law does not target responsible gun ownership,” he said. “This law is about something much narrower and much more important. It is about addressing the small number of bad actors whose negligent practices help fuel violence in our communities.”

House Bill 21, as it was known before becoming law signed by Democratic Gov. Abigail Spanberger, was sponsored by Del. Dan Helmer, D-Fairfax. It sets standards of conduct for firearm manufacturers, distributors and dealers. It also allows the attorney general, along with local county, city and town attorneys, to seek injunctions, damages and other civil remedies when those standards are violated.

Helmer said the measure gives state and local officials another tool to hold firearm industry members accountable when they engage in unlawful or irresponsible business practices.

“This bill gives clear authority to the attorney general and local attorneys to enforce those standards,” Helmer said. “Dealers that sell firearms to prohibited purchasers and gun traffickers will be held accountable.”

According to the Virginia Department of Planning and Budget, implementing the law will require three new positions in the Office of the Attorney General beginning in fiscal year 2027 at an estimated annual cost of $409,864. The positions include a senior assistant attorney general, a junior assistant attorney general and an administrative employee.

Asked how his office plans to use the new authority, Jones said it intends to enforce the law.

“We intend to do what the law allows us to do,” Jones said. “We’re going to make sure that we are using it to best keep our community safe. When people break the law, they will be held accountable.”