Is Laser Jammers Legal in Virginia After the 2026 Law Changes?

No, Virginia explicitly bans laser jammers under § 46.2-1078.1 of the Code of Virginia, classifying them as illegal countermeasures against police radar. Violations carry Class 3 misdemeanor penalties, including fines up to $500. The 2023 General Assembly amendment expanded enforcement, targeting both possession and use. Local jurisdictions, including Fairfax and Arlington, actively prosecute cases under this statute.

Key Regulations for Laser Jammers in Virginia

  • Statutory Ban: § 46.2-1078.1 prohibits the possession, sale, or use of laser jammers to interfere with police radar or lidar devices.
  • Penalties: Convictions result in Class 3 misdemeanor charges, with potential fines up to $500 and no possibility of jail time.
  • Enforcement Trends: Virginia State Police and local law enforcement agencies prioritize sting operations, particularly in high-traffic corridors like I-95 and I-64, following 2026 compliance directives.