Rhode Island House Passes Comprehensive Firearms Legislation

Legislative Victory for Gun Control Advocates

The Rhode Island House of Representatives has successfully passed sweeping firearms legislation that would significantly restrict the sale and production of common semiautomatic weapons throughout the state. The Democratic-majority chamber approved House Bill 5436 by a vote of 43-28, with voting patterns largely following party affiliations.

Key Provisions of House Bill 5436

Scope of the Ban

The comprehensive legislation targets a broad range of semiautomatic firearms, including models commonly owned by civilian shooters. The ban extends beyond typical rifle configurations to encompass semiautomatic shotguns equipped with fixed magazines capable of holding six or more rounds - a provision that would affect popular waterfowl hunting firearms.

Penalties and Enforcement

Violations of the proposed law would carry severe consequences, including:

• Prison sentences of up to 10 years
• Financial penalties reaching $10,000
• Criminal charges for manufacturing or selling prohibited firearms

Exemptions and Grandfather Provisions

The legislation includes specific carve-outs for certain groups and circumstances:

Law Enforcement and Military Personnel

• Active duty military members remain exempt from restrictions
• Law enforcement officers can continue to purchase and possess covered firearms

Current Gun Owners Individuals who currently possess firearms that would fall under the ban may retain ownership under a grandfathering system, though with significant restrictions:

• Mandatory "certificate of possession" required from local police departments
• Documentation must prove ownership prior to the law's implementation
• Possession limited to specific locations including:
  • Personal private property
  • Licensed shooting ranges
  • Authorized shooting clubs

Legislative Sponsor's Statement

Representative Jason Knight, the bill's Democratic sponsor, emphasized the urgency of the legislation, stating his hope that Senate colleagues would advance the measure to address what he characterized as weapons designed for mass casualty events.

Senate Prospects and Timeline Challenges

Current Senate Composition

The Rhode Island Senate maintains a substantial Democratic advantage with a 33-4 supermajority, suggesting favorable conditions for the bill's passage.

Timing Constraints

A significant hurdle remains in the form of the legislative calendar, with the current session scheduled to conclude in approximately two weeks. This compressed timeframe may limit lawmakers' ability to complete the legislative process before adjournment.

Similar Senate Legislation

The upper chamber is simultaneously considering companion legislation (S.359) that contains similar provisions to the House-passed measure.

Executive Branch Position

Governor's Anticipated Response

Governor Dan McKee, a Democrat who received endorsements from prominent gun control organizations Everytown for Gun Safety and Giffords during his campaign, has already demonstrated support for the initiative by incorporating funding for implementation into his proposed 2026 state budget.

Implementation Timeline

Should the legislation successfully navigate the Senate and receive the governor's signature, the ban would take effect in July 2026, providing Rhode Island residents with a one-year transition period before the restrictions become enforceable.