Bill Analysis
S2958 imposes new operational mandates on every shooting range in Rhode Island, including a member-escort requirement that would effectively block walk-in access by non-members, new shooters, and out-of-state visitors.
The Key Change
The bill creates § 11-47-62.1 requiring every shooting range, public or private, rifle, pistol, skeet, trap, or black powder, to post bilingual (English and Spanish) suicide-awareness signage with specific size and font requirements, to train every employee in suicide warning signs through a Department of Health-approved curriculum beginning January 1, 2027, and to require non-members to be accompanied at all times by a member while on the premises.
What It Means for Gun Owners
The non-member escort rule is the serious problem. It shuts down walk-in access for new shooters, out-of-state visitors, family members, and anyone introducing a friend to the sport. Smaller clubs without the staff to manage escort compliance may face real pressure to close their doors. The signage and training mandates add cost without evidence of effectiveness.
Suicide prevention is a serious issue, but the actual effect of this bill is to apply regulatory pressure to a declining number of places where Rhode Islanders can lawfully practice their Second Amendment rights. Rhode Island has already lost several ranges in recent years. Piling on new mandates accelerates that trend.
Enforcement
The bill directs the Department of Environmental Management, working with the Department of Health, to promulgate implementing regulations. No specific criminal or civil penalties are written into the bill text. Enforcement would flow through DEM rulemaking.
Email and Petition
Oppose S2958 — Send Your Message and Be Added to the Petition
Every submission both contacts the members of the Senate Judiciary and adds to a growing public petition and record of opposition.
2 Rhode Islanders have already taken action. Join them.