Those opposed opted to shelve the bill for a year in order for the state crime commission to study the issue - a decision which drew cheers from gun advocates during a highly anticipated committee meeting.

Four moderate Democrats joined Republicans in Monday’s committee vote, rejecting legislation that would have prohibited the sale of certain semiautomatic firearms, including popular AR-15 style rifles, and banned the possession of magazines that hold more than 12 rounds.

The bill was a top priority for Northam, a Democrat who has campaigned heavily for a broad package of gun-control measures. -Fox5

Gun owners and Second Amendment activists accused Northam and others of attempting to confiscate commonly owned guns from law-abiding citizens despite the governor’s repeated assertions that he does not want to confiscate guns. He argued that banning the sales of assault weapons and high-capacity magazines would deter mass murderers.

Tens of thousands of Second Amendment activists flooded the state Capitol in protest of the bill - with many exercising their right to open-carry.