Va. lawmakers look at gun control

RICHMOND, VA. (AP/WAVY) - A Virginia legislative subcommittee is set to consider a proposal to arm public school employees.

Del. Bob Marshall's bill would require school boards to designate one person in every school who would be authorized to carry a concealed handgun on school property. The Prince William County Republican submitted the legislation after the mass school shooting in Connecticut.

A historically pro-gun House Militia, Police and Public Safety subcommittee is scheduled to consider the proposal late Thursday afternoon.

Also on the agenda are several gun control bills. Among them are measures to prohibit the sale of assault rifles and high-capacity ammunition clips, expand background checks for gun buyers and tighten the requirements for obtaining a concealed weapons permit.

President Obama's gun control plan has sparked reaction from all angles.  Democratic state leaders are also looking at the issue and making an announcement on Thursday.

Democratic members of the Virginia House and Senate will hold a news conference.  The group will discuss legislation aimed at improving mental health services, preventing military-grade weapons from being used, starting universal background checks and making our schools safer.  

The democratic legislators will make their announcement in Richmond this morning at 11 a.m. in the House Briefing Room.  Hampton Roads Senator Ralph Northam will be part of the news conference.