Bill Analysis
S2153 establishes concealed carry reciprocity in Rhode Island for non-resident permit holders, allowing law-abiding gun owners from other states with valid carry permits to carry in Rhode Island under the same rules that apply to Rhode Island permit holders.
The Key Change
The bill adds new subsections to § 11-47-9, which governs persons exempt from Rhode Island’s carry restrictions. Under S2153, Rhode Island would recognize a concealed handgun or concealed weapon permit issued by any other state, provided the holder is a non-resident 21 or older, the permit state offers instant online verification of permits, the holder carries both their permit and a government-issued photo ID, and the holder follows the same carry laws as a Rhode Island permit holder. The bill also authorizes the Attorney General to enter formal reciprocity agreements with states that require one before recognizing Rhode Island permits.
What It Means for Gun Owners
Non-resident gun owners who hold a valid carry permit from their home state could legally carry a concealed firearm in Rhode Island without obtaining a separate Rhode Island permit. Rhode Island currently does not recognize out-of-state carry permits for non-residents, meaning most visiting gun owners cannot legally carry even if they are licensed in their home state. S2153 changes that, putting Rhode Island in line with the majority of states that honor out-of-state permits.
Email and Petition
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