The Veterans Affairs Hospital is different from most locations listed on the Idaho Anti‑Gun Accountability Center because it’s governed by federal law, not state policy.

Under 18 U.S.C. § 930, possession of a firearm in a federal facility is a crime. Unlike most anti‑gun signs in Idaho, which carry no weight of law, the VA Hospital is a federal building, and the prohibition is enforceable.

Possessing a firearm in a federal facility is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in prison, unless you fall under one of the narrow exceptions. Those exceptions include law enforcement officers performing official duties or members of the Armed Forces who are in uniform and authorized to carry on federal property. For nearly everyone else, carrying inside the VA is illegal.

We disagree with the law. We believe it violates the Second Amendment and disarms the very people who served this country. But unlike the meaningless signs posted at most Idaho hospitals and businesses, this is not a place where gun owners should ignore the signage. The federal statute is real, enforceable, and carries criminal penalties.

And just like other hospitals, the VA has no security at the entrance, only signs pretending that criminals will suddenly obey federal law.

It’s a sad commentary that Veterans who risked their lives for our country can’t even defend themselves in a facility meant to care for them.

For a list of anti-gun businesses, events, locations, organizations, and more in Idaho, visit IdahoAntiGun.com to learn more!