Possessing Assualt weapons
Possessing Assault Weapons
House Bill 8073 - Sponsored by Rep. Tanzi
Senate Bill 2710 - Sponsored by Sen. Mack
In 2025, Rhode Island became the 11th state to restrict certain military-style weapons, including assault-style rifles like the AR-15. However, the law does not cover some assault-style pistols and shotguns and, critically, does not ban possession—making it difficult to enforce, leaving dangerous weapons in circulation, and falling short of neighboring states’ standards. While the Unlawful Sale of Prohibited Firearms Act is a step toward reducing access, it does not go far enough. A ban on possession is the logical next step, ensuring that firearms deemed too dangerous to sell cannot be possessed.
It's About Public Safety
While the gun lobby likes to say that these laws would only take away rights from “law-abiding citizens,” the fact is that decreasing the number of highly-lethal firearms enhances the safety of all Rhode Islanders.
Help Fight the Pro-Gun Lobby at the State House
Fact-Based Policies
These legislative goals are based on documentary evidence and recent studies that show these measures reduce gun violence; in addition, public health experts and law enforcement officials in Rhode Island and throughout the country have voiced their support for these reforms to help keep our communities safer.