Bill Analysis
S2295 is the Senate companion to H7035. It 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. 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, and curios/relics collectors. Private citizens buying for their own use have no exemption. The House version is H7035.
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 private transfers between individuals.
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 S2295 — 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.
0 Rhode Islanders have already taken action. Join them.