Final answer:
Convicted felons in Virginia are prohibited from possessing or transporting firearms, firearms ammunition, and explosives under Virginia Code §18.2-308.2. Historical gun control laws evolved in response to societal issues and Supreme Court decisions have defined the extent of Second Amendment rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under Virginia Code §18.2-308.2, the three things considered illegal for convicted felons to possess or transport are 1) Firearms, 2) Firearms ammunition, and 3) Explosives. Stun weapons and concealed weapons are also regulated under various state laws. It is essential to understand that state laws, such as those requiring firearms to be kept unloaded, trigger-locked, or disassembled, aim to regulate gun usage for safety purposes. The historical context of gun control measures including the National Firearms Act and the regulation of gun ownership stems from a response to organized crime, political unrest, and other societal issues. Changes in these regulations, such as the response to street protests or the assassination attempt on Ronald Reagan, highlight the evolving legal landscape surrounding gun rights and the importance of adhering to current laws.
Contrasting these with the understanding that in the case of United States v. Miller, the Supreme Court upheld certain gun control measures, it is clear that the legal system has consistently been involved in setting the boundaries of Second Amendment rights. Notably, the reference to a Class E felony for possession of firearms by convicted felots which carries a penalty, sometimes as a response to the dynamics of public demonstrations and civil unrests. When addressing Virginia Code §18.2-308.2, it is important for convicted felons to be aware of the strict penalties associated with the possession or transportation of firearms, ammunition, and explosives.