Another State Passes an Assault Weapon Ban

Published on June 24, 2025
Duration: 7:38

Rhode Island has passed an assault weapon ban, Senate Bill 0359, which closely mirrors Washington State's legislation. The ban prohibits the manufacture, sale, and transfer of certain semi-automatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns, effective July 1st, 2026. The bill does not include a registration component for lawfully owned firearms prior to the enactment date, unlike the initial House bill. This legislation is expected to significantly impact the FFL industry, particularly small, independently-owned businesses.

Quick Summary

Rhode Island's assault weapon ban, Senate Bill 0359, will take effect on July 1st, 2026. The law prohibits the manufacture, sale, and transfer of certain semi-automatic firearms and closely mirrors Washington State's legislation. Unlike the initial House bill, the enacted Senate version does not require registration of grandfathered firearms.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Rhode Island Assault Weapon Ban
  2. 00:05Welcome to the Gates of Hell: Rhode Island Joins Civilian Disarmament Club
  3. 00:37Comparing House and Senate Bills
  4. 01:25Rhode Island Passes Assault Weapon Ban
  5. 01:37House Bill H5436 Analysis
  6. 02:08Senate Bill 0359 Analysis
  7. 02:34Stock Up Before July 1st, 2026
  8. 02:56Prohibited Firearm Definition and Penalties
  9. 03:23Ban on Commercial Sale and Availability
  10. 03:45Reasons to Stock Up
  11. 03:51Impact on FFL Industry
  12. 05:07Senate Bill 0359: No Registration Component
  13. 05:53Rhode Island Bill vs. Washington Bill
  14. 06:10Welcome to the Civilian Disarmament Club
  15. 06:23Enactment Date: July 1st, 2026
  16. 06:36Support Your Local FFLs
  17. 06:43Bill Link and Further Information
  18. 07:14Conclusion: Stay Safe and Know the Law

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the effective date of Rhode Island's new assault weapon ban?

Rhode Island's assault weapon ban, Senate Bill 0359, is set to become effective on July 1st, 2026. This provides individuals with a window of time to legally acquire prohibited firearms before the ban on sales and transfers takes full effect.

Does Rhode Island's assault weapon ban require registration of existing firearms?

No, the enacted Rhode Island assault weapon ban, Senate Bill 0359, does not include a registration component for firearms legally owned prior to the ban's enactment date. This is a key difference from the initial House bill.

How does Rhode Island's assault weapon ban compare to Washington State's law?

The Rhode Island assault weapon ban, Senate Bill 0359, is described as being almost a carbon copy of the law that was passed in Washington State. Both bans prohibit the sale and transfer of certain semi-automatic firearms.

What are the penalties for violating Rhode Island's assault weapon ban?

Violating Rhode Island's assault weapon ban can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine of up to $10,000, and forfeiture of the prohibited firearm. The law aims to prevent the manufacture, sale, and transfer of these weapons.

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