Bill Analysis
H7553 creates a formal, enforceable appeal process for Rhode Islanders whose carry permit applications are denied – giving applicants the right to an in-person hearing, written reasons for denial, Superior Court review, and attorney fees if the denial had no good faith basis.
The Key Change
The bill creates a new § 11-47-8.2 establishing a two-step appeal process for denied carry permits. First, an applicant may submit a written reconsideration request within 15 days of a denial. The licensing authority or AG’s office must then hold an in-person meeting within 14 days, allow the applicant to submit additional documentation and bring an attorney, and issue a written decision within 7 days of the meeting – with specific written reasons if still denied. Second, the applicant may appeal to Superior Court within 15 days of any denial, where they are entitled to a trial de novo before a judge. All proceedings are confidential by default. If the Superior Court finds the denial had no good faith basis, the court shall award the applicant reasonable attorney fees and costs.
What It Means for Gun Owners
Rhode Island’s current carry permit system gives licensing authorities broad discretion and little accountability. H7553 changes that: denials must be explained in writing, applicants get a real hearing with an attorney, and a Superior Court judge can overturn an arbitrary denial. The attorney fee provision is particularly strong – it creates a financial consequence for bad-faith denials. This is a meaningful due process protection for every Rhode Islander who applies for a carry permit.
Email and Petition
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