Henrico County officials have announced a ban on the possession of firearms and ammunition in its government buildings, including libraries and recreation centers, effective immediately.

The Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 Tuesday to approve an ordinance to enact the firearms ban, which applies to all members of the public, except for military personnel and sworn law enforcement officers acting in official capacities and

other exempt individuals. The ordinance is designed to promote public safety and align with similar measures in place for buildings of the Commonwealth of Virginiaand the United States, as well as buildings of Henrico County Public Schools and Henrico’s courts.

The prohibition does not apply to county parks.

A violation of the ordinance would be a Class 2 misdemeanor or a Class 1 misdemeanor if it occurs with an intent to intimidate or harass another person. More information about the ordinance is online.