On Thursday, May 31, both chambers of the Rhode Island Legislature passed gun bills despite the objections of Ocean State gun owners. Although the bills were amended, they still have problems. Both chambers concurred with the bills, and they have been transmitted to Governor Gina Raimondo for her signature.
S.2492A by Senator Maryellen Goodwin (D-1) and H.7688A by Rep. Dennis Canario (D-71) would create broad gun ban powers under the guise of “extreme risk” protection orders. NRA-ILA strongly believes that dangerous individuals should not have firearms. However, this “red flag” legislation is an overreach with few legal protections for those who may be falsely accused. This sweeping legislation would allow almost anyone’s guns to be taken with little or no due process. The bill allows seizure and forfeiture through ex parte hearings where a respondent isn't given notice and a hearing.
S.2292A by Senator James Seveney (D-11) and H.7075A by Rep. Robert Craven (D-32), would ban certain firearm accessories and impose a $10,000 fine and 10-year prison sentence. Aside from the harsh penalty for possessing certain firearm accessories, the legislation’s language is extremely broad and penalizes people who lawfully acquired them. This bill is poorly crafted and provides no compensation for banned private property.
Thank you to all the NRA members and gun owners who attended hearing and maintained a strong presence during the 2018 session. Gov. Gina Raimondo needs to hear from gun owners immediately. Silence invites further infringements. The session is entering its final weeks, but it is not over until the final gavel drops. There are still several active bills remaining, and we need to continue to communicate our opposition to these bills and all new gun control.
Please contact Gov. Raimondo at 401-222-2080 or clicking the above “Take Action” button and urge her to veto these anti-gun bills.
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