New Laws Aim At Safer Streets

Governor Dan McKee has signed three-gun reform bills this afternoon.

He says it's time for what he describes as common-sense gun legislation in Rhode Island.

“Here in Rhode Island, we’re taking meaningful action to address the scourge of gun violence and keep our residents safe,” said Governor Dan McKee. “As Governor, I am proud to sign a legislative package that will ban high-capacity magazines, raise the legal age to purchase firearms to 21 and prohibit the open carry of a rifle or shotgun in public – these measures can help saves lives. My deepest thanks go out to the legislative sponsors and the thousands of advocates who stepped up and got the work done.”

According to the Governor the new law will:

Bans large-capacity gun magazines, which have enabled numerous mass shootings, including the massacres in Uvalde, Tex., Buffalo, N.Y., Newtown, Conn., Parkland, Fla., and too many others.

Raises the legal age to purchase firearms or ammunition in Rhode Island from 18 to 21, with exceptions for police, state marshals or correctional officers and active-duty military or National Guard members.

Changes the definitions of “rifle” and “shotgun” consistent with federal law, and prohibits the open carry of any loaded rifle or shotgun in public.

The bills were passed by the General Assembly in the aftermath of mass shootings in Buffalo, New York, and Uvalde, Texas.

(Photo provided by Governor McKee's Office)


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