Domestic violence victims concerned after Va. Gov. Youngkin vetoes gun bills

ARLINGTON, Va. (7News) — 7News spoke to domestic violence survivors Friday who are concerned about recent action taken in Richmond after Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed several gun bills that some said put victims in danger.

We’ve seen the tragic results when accused domestic abusers violate protective orders while armed.

One scene in March 2024 ended with the shooting death of 31-year-old Anesha Isaacs.

She had a protective order against her ex-boyfriend, Tylen Jennings and was on the phone with 911 when he fatally shot her.

Moments like that are why Virginia lawmakers said they drafted bills including House Bill 46 and Senate Bill 47, to enhance laws that take guns out of the hands of domestic abusers.

But, the bills were recently vetoed by Gov. Youngkin.

Lisette Johnson knows the dangers all to well. After initiating a separation from her husband who she said was verbally abusive, he grabbed a gun and shot her four times before taking his own life.

The authors of two of the recently vetoed firearm bills said their measures focused on transferring weapons from an accused abuser to a legally eligible recipient.

The governor said rather than certain restrictions, he’s pushing for stricter penalties for gun crimes, while “protecting the right of law-abiding Virginians to keep and bear arms.”

If you are concerned about domestic violence, contact Fairfax County Domestic & Sexual Violence Services at 703-360-7273