One significant change brought by H7889 is the imposition of a restriction on outdoor gun range operations within one mile of K-12 schools. This provision aims to protect children in educational settings from potential disturbances caused by nearby firing ranges, emphasizing a commitment to safety and noise reduction in residential zones. The bill is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2023, reinforcing the urgency of these legislative changes in response to community concerns about gun range noise and its effects on nearby schools.
Summary
House Bill H7889 relates to the regulation of outdoor gun ranges in the state of Rhode Island. Introduced by Representative Brandon C. Potter on March 4, 2022, this legislation aims to amend existing laws surrounding the operation of these ranges, specifically regarding noise-related nuisance claims. According to the bill, gun range owners should be exempt from prosecution for any noise pollution as long as they comply with the noise control laws and regulations in effect at the time of the range's construction. This amendment seeks to provide greater operational freedom for gun range owners, recognizing the challenges posed by noise complaints from neighboring residents.
Contention
Debate surrounding H7889 centers on the balance between the rights of gun range owners and the need to safeguard local communities, especially children. Supporters of the bill argue that it protects property rights and supports recreational shooting activities, while detractors express concern about the potential for increased noise levels and disruption in residential areas. The contention highlights broader discussions regarding gun rights and community safety that are often seen in legislative journalism around such bills.
Assault Weapons Ban of 2023 This bill makes it a crime to knowingly import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess a semiautomatic assault weapon (SAW) or large capacity ammunition feeding device (LCAFD). The prohibition does not apply to a firearm that is (1) manually operated by bolt, pump, lever, or slide action, except for certain shotguns; (2) permanently inoperable; (3) an antique; (4) only capable of firing rimfire ammunition; or (5) a rifle or shotgun specifically identified by make and model. The bill also exempts from the prohibition the following, with respect to a SAW or LCAFD: importation, sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession related to certain law enforcement efforts, or authorized tests or experiments; importation, sale, transfer, or possession related to securing nuclear materials; and possession by a retired law enforcement officer. The bill permits continued possession, sale, or transfer of a grandfathered SAW, which must be securely stored. A licensed gun dealer must conduct a background check prior to the sale or transfer of a grandfathered SAW between private parties. The bill permits continued possession of, but prohibits sale or transfer of, a grandfathered LCAFD. Newly manufactured LCAFDs must display serial number identification. Newly manufactured SAWs and LCAFDs must display the date of manufacture. The bill also allows a state or local government to use Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program funds to compensate individuals who surrender a SAW or LCAFD under a buy-back program.