Bill Analysis
H8070 amends Rhode Island’s weapons law to allow students, professors, and other employees of public and private colleges and universities to carry a stun gun or pepper spray for self-defense. Under current law, stun guns are prohibited under the same statute that bans blackjacks, metal knuckles, and bludgeons, with no exception for personal protection.
The Key Change
Section 11-47-42 of the General Laws, which lists prohibited weapons other than firearms, is amended to add a self-defense carve-out for the college campus community. The new language allows any student, professor, or other employee of any public or private college or university to carry, possess, and have in their control a stun gun or pepper spray for purposes of self-defense.
What It Means for Gun Owners
College students, faculty, and staff would gain legal protection to carry a stun gun or pepper spray without facing criminal charges under the existing prohibited weapons statute. This fills a gap in current law that leaves the campus community without a lawful self-defense option when they cannot carry a firearm.
Email and Petition
Support H8070 — 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.
34 Rhode Islanders have already taken action. Join them.