Bill Analysis
H8073 expands Rhode Island’s 2025 “prohibited firearms” law to make possession of those firearms a felony. The 2025 law banned future sales and transfers but left existing owners alone. This bill removes that protection.
The Key Change
The 2025 law prohibited the manufacture, sale, transfer, and purchase of firearms classified as “prohibited firearms.” H8073 adds one word to that list: possession. Rhode Islanders who legally own these firearms before the law takes effect would be required to dispose of them or face felony charges.
What It Means for Gun Owners
Current owners would have until December 31, 2026 to either sell to a federally licensed dealer or transfer the firearm to someone outside Rhode Island who can legally possess it. After that deadline, simply keeping the firearm becomes a felony regardless of when or how it was acquired.
Penalties:
- Up to 10 years in prison
- Fines up to $10,000
- Permanent forfeiture of the firearm
Email and Petition
Oppose H8073 — Send Your Message and Be Added to the Petition
Every submission both contacts the members of the House Judiciary and adds to a growing public petition and record of opposition.
788 Rhode Islanders have already taken action. Join them.