Increases sentences for carrying a stolen firearm when committing a crime of violence and for possessing a stolen firearm. Requires that a person convicted of these offenses serve a period of time in which they would not be eligible for parole/ probation.
Impact
If enacted, S0138 will significantly alter the landscape of gun-related offenses in the state. The increased penalties are designed to deter individuals from engaging in violent crimes while armed with stolen weapons, potentially leading to a reduction in such occurrences. The legislation reflects a growing concern among lawmakers regarding gun violence and the illegal possession of firearms. By imposing stricter sentences, proponents believe that there will be a lower incidence of gun-related crime, especially in violent confrontations involving stolen firearms.
Summary
Bill S0138 aims to amend existing laws regarding firearms and criminal offenses in Rhode Island. The legislation seeks to increase the penalties associated with carrying a stolen firearm during the commission of a crime of violence, as well as for the possession of stolen firearms. Key changes include harsher sentencing guidelines that would require minimum terms of imprisonment without eligibility for parole or probation, particularly for repeat offenders. The introductory provisions insist on more severe consequences for individuals with multiple convictions in this area, mandating longer prison terms with no opportunity for early release.
Conclusion
In summary, S0138 represents a legislative push towards stricter control over firearm-related offenses in Rhode Island, focusing on both deterrence and punishment. As the bill moves through the legislative process, it will likely garner further debate over the efficacy of increased sentencing in combating gun violence and the balance between punitive action and rehabilitation.
Contention
However, the bill may face opposition from lawmakers and advocacy groups who argue that increasing penalties does not address the root causes of gun violence and may disproportionately affect certain demographics. Critics may contend that addressing the illegal circulation of firearms and improving community safety would better serve public interests than lengthening prison terms. The discussion around S0138 may highlight the tension between public safety initiatives and concerns about criminal justice reform, particularly regarding how punitive measures impact individuals and communities.
Increases sentences for carrying a firearm when committing a crime of violence and for possessing a stolen firearm and requires that a person convicted of these offenses serve a period of time in which they would not be eligible for parole or probation.
Provides that prisoners who committed offenses prior to age 18 and sentenced as adults would be eligible for parole after completing 15 yrs of their sentence/does not lengthen their eligibility should prisoner be eligible for parole earlier than 15 yrs.
Requires safe storage of firearms/provides civil and criminal penalties for violations/adds rifles and shotguns to the types of firearms requiring a trigger lock to be included with purchase/requires firearms dealers post signs regarding safe storage.
Requires safe storage of firearms/provides civil and criminal penalties for violations/adds rifles and shotguns to the types of firearms requiring a trigger lock to be included with purchase/requires firearms dealers post signs regarding safe storage
Requires purchasers of firearms, to take and pass a basic firearm safety test and requires the firearm test administered by DEM be updated every two years, as deemed appropriate and repeals § 11-47-35.2.
Requires purchasers of firearms, to take and pass a basic firearm safety test and requires the firearm test administered by DEM be updated every two years, as deemed appropriate and repeals § 11-47-35.2.
Requires that any person convicted of a charge of DUI or refusal, have an ignition interlock before being eligible for license reinstatement. Also permits a first-time offender to have charges dismissed.