A. Any person who knowingly and intentionally purchases, possesses, or transports any firearm following a misdemeanor conviction for a violation of § 18.2-287.4:1 is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.
B. Any person convicted of a violation of § 18.2-287.4:1 or this section shall be prohibited from purchasing, possessing, or transporting a firearm for three years following the date of such conviction at which point the person convicted of such offense shall no longer be prohibited from purchasing, possessing, or transporting a firearm pursuant to this section. Such person shall have his firearm rights restored, unless such person receives another disqualifying conviction, is subject to a protective order that would restrict his rights to carry a firearm, or is otherwise prohibited by law from purchasing, possessing, or transporting a firearm.