Gun rights activists gather at state capitol, demand action from lawmakers

RICHMOND, Va. (WSET) – UPDATE 4:15 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14

Once the conference began, the House Briefing Room was at capacity withlegislators and NRA supporters.

One of the speakers,Savannah Lindquist says she's a sexual assault survivor. She says the horrific incident may not have happened if she was permitted to carry her concealed weapon at the time of the incident.

Lindquist doesn’t want law-abiding citizens to be left defenseless due to proposed legislation, saying “I’m afraid rich politicians will price me out of being able to protect myself.”

Lt. Governor Justin Fairfax also stopped by to talk with NRA supporters and answer questions for them.

The exchange got heated at times, with activists questioning if Fairfax will support their second amendment rights.

During the session, NRA supporters discussed Governor Ralph Northam's proposals.

He plans to pass stricter gun laws that include universal background checks.

------

Gun rights activists from around Virginia have gathered at the state capitol to demand action from Virginia lawmakers Monday, Jan. 13.

The gun rights activists will speak to their representatives in the house and senate, asking them to oppose bills that would limit their Second Amendment rights.

Democrats, who recently took control of the General Assembly, want to mandate universal background checks, ban assault weapons and pass a red flag law.

On Friday, Jan. 10, Democrats in the General Assembly voted to ban guns at the Capitol and a legislative office building, saying the move was needed to protect public safety.

More than 100 Virginia counties, towns and cities have passed resolutions declaring themselves a Second Amendment sanctuary.

These localities oppose any efforts to restrict its citizens' gun rights.

The resolution is not legally binding but expresses the locality's intent that its public funds not be used to restrict Second Amendment rights.

Many NRA supporters are also stationed out in front of the capital.

There will also be a press conference at 11 a.m. where gun rights activists will speak out and legislators will address proposed gun control bills.