The State That Lied to Its Citizens, And Now Wants to Take Their Guns

Published on March 2, 2026
Duration: 6:28

This video, presented by William Kirk of Washington Gun Law and sponsored by Right to Bear Legal Defense Protection, details how Rhode Island's House Bill 8073, by adding the word 'possess,' effectively eliminates grandfathering provisions for banned firearms. This change, effective July 1, 2026, with a surrender deadline of December 31, 2026, could lead to the forfeiture of firearms for citizens who lawfully owned them prior to the ban, despite previous assurances. The discussion references the Supreme Court's denial of the petition in Ocean State Tactical v. State of Rhode Island, which may embolden other states to enact similar legislation.

Quick Summary

Rhode Island's House Bill 8073 amends assault weapon ban laws by adding the word 'possess,' potentially eliminating grandfathering provisions for firearms legally owned prior to the ban. This change, effective July 1, 2026, with a divestment deadline of December 31, 2026, could force citizens to surrender their firearms, despite prior assurances. The Supreme Court's denial of Ocean State Tactical v. State of Rhode Island may encourage similar legislation elsewhere.

Chapters

  1. 00:07Grandfathering Provisions and State Laws
  2. 00:41Rhode Island Assault Weapon Ban Amendment
  3. 02:16The Effect of Rhode Island's Legislation
  4. 03:44Ocean State Tactical v. Rhode Island

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rhode Island House Bill 8073?

Rhode Island House Bill 8073 amends the state's assault weapon ban law by adding the word 'possess' to the list of prohibited actions. This change could eliminate grandfathering provisions for firearms legally owned before the ban, potentially leading to their forfeiture.

How does Rhode Island H 8073 affect current gun owners?

If enacted as written, Rhode Island H 8073 could force individuals who lawfully possess prohibited firearms before July 1, 2026, to sell or transfer them by December 31, 2026, effectively removing grandfathering protections and potentially leading to confiscation.

What was the significance of Ocean State Tactical v. State of Rhode Island?

The Supreme Court's denial of the petition in Ocean State Tactical v. State of Rhode Island meant the case would not be heard, potentially emboldening Rhode Island and other states to pass stricter firearm legislation without federal judicial review.

What is the role of 'Washington Gun Law' in this discussion?

William Kirk, President of Washington Gun Law, provides expert analysis on the implications of Rhode Island's H 8073, highlighting how the addition of a single word can drastically alter existing firearm laws and impact citizens' rights.

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