Providence, Rhode Island – On Thursday, Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee signed a landmark bill into law that bans the sale of certain military-style weapons in the state, marking a significant step in the state’s efforts to curb gun violence.
“Today, we’re delivering progress on the work to keep our children, families, and communities safe from gun violence,” said Governor McKee. “This law builds on the important momentum we’ve created over the last few years and is a testament to the dedication of our advocates, legislators, and many Rhode Islanders who stood up for a safer state.”
Key Provisions of the Law
The newly signed 2025-S 0359A law prohibits the manufacture, purchase, sale, or transfer of certain military-style weapons, including semi-automatic rifles and shotguns.
However, the law allows current lawful owners to retain their firearms and sell them to federally licensed dealers or to individuals outside the state who can lawfully possess them.
“This law represents progress in ensuring our communities are safer by slowing the spread of dangerous military-style weapons,” said Lt. Governor Sabina Matos. “Today is a great day for Rhode Island.”
When Does the Law Take Effect?
The law is set to go into effect on July 1, 2026. Violations of this law carry serious consequences, with penalties including up to 10 years in prison, a $10,000 fine, and the forfeiture of firearms.
National Context and Response
Rhode Island joins 10 other states in imposing some form of restriction on high-powered firearms that were banned nationwide for a time but have now become the weapon of choice in many mass shootings.
The bill is an important piece of the broader effort for gun control, though it has its critics.
Many gun control advocates have pushed for a complete assault weapons ban in Rhode Island for more than a decade. Despite Rhode Island’s Democratic-leaning status, the state has been slow to adopt strict gun control measures.
The bill only addresses the sale and manufacturing of assault weapons, not their possession. The bill’s limited scope has drawn criticism, particularly from activists like David Hogg, a gun control advocate and survivor of the 2018 Parkland school shooting.
Hogg argued that Rhode Island deserves a more comprehensive bill that bans both the sale and possession of assault weapons to ensure greater public safety.
Read Also: Stricter Licensing Rules Take Effect July 1 for Certain Florida Drivers
Criticism and Support for the Law
Senator Louis DiPalma, who sponsored the legislation, highlighted that this bill is the culmination of years of advocacy and legislative work, stressing that two-thirds of Rhode Islanders support banning assault-style weapons.
Despite this support, critics argue that such bans are ineffective at preventing mass shootings and disproportionately impact law-abiding citizens who legally own such weapons.
Nonetheless, the law represents a significant victory for gun safety advocates in Rhode Island.
Other Gun Safety Measures in Rhode Island
The passage of this law adds to a broader set of gun safety laws recently enacted in Rhode Island. These include:
- A ban on large-capacity magazines.
- Requirements for the safe storage of firearms.
- Raising the legal age to purchase firearms or ammunition from 18 to 21.
- Prohibiting the open carry of loaded rifles or shotguns in public.
These measures aim to further reduce gun violence and make Rhode Island a safer place for its residents.
Do you think this new law will have a positive impact on gun safety in Rhode Island? Share your thoughts in the comments below. For more updates on local legislation, visit ridgecrestpact.org
