Specifies that it is unlawful for any person under the age of eighteen (18) to possess a firearm.
If enacted, S2734 will significantly tighten regulations around youth access to firearms in Rhode Island. The bill aims to enhance safety by preventing minors from possessing firearms in situations where they are not directly supervised by responsible adults. This legislative change reflects a growing concern about gun violence and the need to protect children and teenagers from the risks associated with unsupervised access to firearms, thus aligning the state's laws with similar restrictions seen in other jurisdictions across the United States.
Bill S2734 is a legislative act introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly that seeks to amend existing laws regarding the possession and use of firearms by individuals under eighteen years of age. Specifically, the bill stipulates that it is unlawful for any person under this age to possess or use a firearm unless they are in the presence of a parent, guardian, or an adult who is supervising them at designated locations such as approved camps or rifle ranges. Exceptions are noted for minors engaged in lawful hunting under supervision, and for participation in specific military or educational programs.
Despite its safety intentions, Bill S2734 could face opposition from various advocacy groups and individuals who argue that such restrictions may infringe on the rights of responsible gun owners and families who engage in supervised shooting activities. Moreover, there may be discussions about the balance between the rights of parents to guide their children's education and safety in firearms usage versus broader public safety concerns. The bill's passage could ignite debates around the effectiveness of such regulations in reducing gun-related incidents involving minors.