RELATING TO CRIMINAL OFFENSES -- WEAPONS
H7035 would add a new section to Rhode Island’s weapons laws prohibiting most people from purchasing or taking possession of more than one firearm in any 30-day period. The bill defines firearm for this purpose as a pistol, rifle, or shotgun under existing state law. It also makes the restriction effective immediately upon passage.
The measure includes several exemptions. The limit would not apply to federally licensed firearm dealers, governmental entities, law enforcement officers, licensed private security companies for armed guards, court-ordered transfers, probate-related transfers involving estates or heirs, temporary use or rental at licensed shooting ranges or clubs, firearms used during training or safety courses, or transfers of curio or relic firearms to licensed collectors. Violations would be punished as a misdemeanor for a first offense and as a felony for second or subsequent offenses.
If enacted, H7035 would create a new statewide restriction on firearm sales and transfers by limiting most purchasers to one firearm every 30 days. It would directly affect gun dealers, private purchasers, and transfer transactions covered by the bill, while preserving exceptions for law enforcement, government use, inheritance, training, and certain collector transactions. The bill would amend Chapter 11-47 of the General Laws, which governs weapons, and add new criminal penalties for violations.
Based on the bill text and available context, the measure appears to reflect a gun-control approach aimed at reducing multiple firearm purchases in a short period. There were no committee transcripts or recorded votes provided, so there is no documented debate or formal legislative sentiment in the supplied materials. The bill’s introduction by multiple representatives suggests some sponsor support, but the overall public or committee reaction cannot be determined from the available record.
The main point of contention is likely the restriction on lawful firearm purchases, especially for individuals who may want to buy multiple guns for collection, sporting, or personal reasons. Opponents could argue that the bill burdens lawful gun owners and dealers without sufficient justification, while supporters would likely view it as a public-safety measure intended to slow bulk purchases. The exemptions for law enforcement, security companies, estates, training, ranges, and curio/relic collectors indicate an effort to narrow the bill’s reach, but those carve-outs also highlight the tension between regulation and lawful firearm use.