The Virginia State Senate approved three schools safety bills on Monday, although they must still pass through the state finance committee before coming to fruition. The bills, which were introduced by Governor Bob McDonnell on Friday, would increase sentences to 2-10 years for those caught buying guns for those who may not themselves. This could include people deemed mentally unfit, or felons. A new offense would be created for those who enter a school while armed that carries a sentence of 20 years-life. Finally, the other bill to pass through the senate would provide immunity for anyone reporting a possible threat to campus safety.
Some argue that these bills to not actually address any real problems, or solve any campus safety concerns. Gun-control advocates are calling it lip-service as a way to deflect dealing with the actual issue: gun control and mental health care.
