The State Doubling Down on Firearm Bans

Published on June 8, 2025
Duration: 11:59

This video from Washington Gun Law TV, featuring President William Kirk, details Rhode Island's proposed House Bill 5436, an assault weapon ban. The bill defines various semi-automatic firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and pistols, as "assault weapons" based on features and magazine capacity. It bans possession, manufacture, sale, and transfer of these items after July 1, 2026, with a mandatory registration and permit-to-possess requirement for existing owners. The speaker emphasizes the Supreme Court's unwillingness to review such bans as emboldening states like Rhode Island to pursue civilian disarmament measures.

Quick Summary

Rhode Island House Bill 5436, the Assault Weapon Ban Act of 2025, aims to ban the possession, manufacture, and sale of firearms defined as "assault weapons." Existing owners must register their firearms and obtain a permit by July 1, 2026, or face penalties including up to 10 years imprisonment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rhode Island House Bill 5436?

Rhode Island House Bill 5436, also known as the Rhode Island Assault Weapon Ban Act of 2025, proposes to ban the manufacture, sale, transfer, purchase, and possession of certain semi-automatic firearms defined as "assault weapons." It also mandates registration and a permit for existing owners of such firearms.

What types of firearms does Rhode Island's H5436 bill ban?

The bill defines "assault weapons" to include semi-automatic shotguns with fixed magazines over six rounds, semi-automatic rifles with fixed magazines over ten rounds, and semi-automatic pistols that accept detachable magazines and possess certain features like threaded barrels or shrouds. Beltfed firearms are also included.

What are the requirements for current owners of "assault weapons" in Rhode Island under H5436?

Current owners must register their "assault weapons" with the state and obtain a "voluntary certificate of possession" from law enforcement by July 1, 2026. This process involves providing firearm details and paying a $50 fee to lawfully retain possession.

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

Violating the ban on manufacturing, selling, or possessing "assault weapons" can result in up to 10 years imprisonment or a $10,000 fine. Possessing a registered "assault weapon" in an unauthorized location can lead to up to 3 years in jail and a $2,500 fine.

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