A timeline of RI events that produced a 132% Increase in NICS Background Checks in March 2020 – putting us at the top of the list of U.S. states.
February 29, 2020
First COVID case reported
March 9, 2020
Gov. Raimondo declares disaster emergency
March 16, 2020
Boston Globe reporting runs on ammo and big surge in gun sales in West Warwick and Coventry
Gov. Raimondo limits groups to 25 or less
March 17, 2020
WJAR reports huge spike in gun sales in Exeter and Warwick
March 20, 2020
RI Police Chief’s Assoc. asks Gov. to extend background checks due to surge in gun sales
Gov. Raimondo extends timeframe for NICS background checks from 7 to 30 days.
March 21, 2020
Newport Daily News reports big spike in sales at Aquidneck Island gun shops.
March 22, 2020
Gov. Raimondo limits groups to 10
March 24, 2020
WPRI reports big uptick in gun sales in Tiverton, Warwick, Richmond
March 28, 2020
Providence Journal reports first coronavirus death
Gov. Raimondo limits groups to less 5 or less, designates liquor and firearms stores as essential services
April 2, 2020
ABC affiliate in N.C. reports FBI background checks in RI up 132%, highest in the U.S.
April 17, 2020
Gov. Raimondo extends executive order for NICS background checks
