Bill Analysis
H7035 limits Rhode Island gun owners to one firearm purchase every 30 days, making it a crime to buy more than one pistol, rifle, or shotgun in a single month.
The Key Change
The bill creates a new § 11-47-65 prohibiting any person from purchasing or taking possession of more than one firearm in any 30-day period. The restriction applies to pistols, rifles, and shotguns. Exemptions exist for federally licensed dealers, government entities, law enforcement, licensed security companies, court-ordered transfers, estate transfers through probate, temporary rentals at shooting ranges, participants in training or safety courses during instruction, and curios/relics collectors. Private citizens buying for their own use have no exemption.
What It Means for Gun Owners
A law-abiding Rhode Islander who wants to buy a handgun and a rifle in the same month would be committing a crime. There is no exception for gifts, private sales between individuals, or purchases made at gun shows. The companion bill in the Senate is S2295.
Penalties:
- First offense: misdemeanor – up to 1 year imprisonment and/or $500 fine
- Second or subsequent offense: felony – up to 3 years imprisonment and/or $3,000 fine
Email and Petition
Oppose H7035 — 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.
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