Bill Analysis
S2277 converts Rhode Island’s carry permit system to shall-issue for both city/town (§ 11-47-11) and Attorney General (§ 11-47-18) permits, establishes 90-day processing deadlines, standardizes application requirements, and makes self-defense an explicit lawful reason for a permit. See also S2164, a similar bill with additional provisions including out-of-state reciprocity and suppressor hunting.
The Key Change
The bill rewrites both carry permit statutes to change “may issue” to “shall issue.” Self-defense is explicitly recognized as a proper and lawful purpose. Licensing authorities must act on complete applications within 90 calendar days and return incomplete applications with a written explanation within 14 days. Denials must be in writing with specific reasons. Failure to approve or deny within the deadline constitutes a denial for appeal purposes only and creates a presumption that no disqualifying evidence exists. Standardized application forms are mandated. An emergency permit extension is created for renewal applicants who need their permits for work. Permit records and proceedings are made confidential.
What It Means for Gun Owners
Rhode Island carry permit applicants who meet the legal qualifications could not be denied without specific written evidence. The subjective “proper cause” requirement that allows licensing authorities to deny without explanation would be eliminated. Processing delays would be capped at 90 days.
Email and Petition
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