Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5069

Introduced
1/16/25  

Caption

Prohibits any city or town from requiring an applicant for license to carry concealed firearm to provide a reason for their request other than those outlined in § 11-47-1.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5069 would significantly impact local regulations surrounding concealed carry licenses. Local governments, which may have previously enforced stricter rules or additional requirements based on their unique circumstances, would be restricted from doing so. This centralization of control may enhance the consistency of concealed carry regulations statewide but could also reduce the adaptability of localities to tailor regulations that reflect their community's needs and concerns.

Summary

House Bill 5069 seeks to amend current legislation regarding the licensing of individuals to carry concealed firearms in Rhode Island. The bill explicitly prohibits any city or town licensing authority from requiring an applicant to provide a justification for their request beyond the reasons specified in the law. This change aims to streamline the licensing process for concealed carries, making it easier for legal gun owners to obtain permits without the burden of additional requirements that may be imposed by local authorities.

Contention

The bill may generate controversy, particularly among those who advocate for gun control and community safety. Critics may argue that removing the local authority's ability to impose stricter regulations could lead to an increase in concealed carry permits without adequate assessment of the applicant's reasons for wanting to carry a weapon. Proponents of the bill, however, might frame it as a necessary measure to uphold Second Amendment rights and eliminate bureaucratic hurdles that could discourage responsible firearm ownership.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S2451

Prohibits any city or town or licensing authority from charging more than forty dollars ($40.00) for any license or permit to carry a concealed weapon.

RI S2201

Defines suitable person, establishes reasons for applying for concealed carry permit, establishes what information is required on applications, establishes appeal process for denials, provides that records are not public permits hunting with suppressor.

RI S2231

Defines suitable person and establishes reasons for applying for carry permit, establishes what information is required on applications, establishes appeal process if application denied and provides that records are not public.

RI H7752

Provides that any person eighteen (18) years of age who is issued a license or permit may carry a stun gun.

RI H8026

Exempts certain U.S. employees from having to obtain state licenses to carry a visible or concealed pistol or revolver.

RI H7374

Expands firearm rights to recognize out of state carry permits, authorizes weapons carried during emergency evacuation and establishes an appeal process for permit denied.

RI S2218

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.

RI H7268

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.

RI S2107

Allows reciprocal concealed carry permits from out of state to be valid in Rhode Island, which is either authorized by the attorney general or subject to other reciprocal restrictions.

RI S2108

Permits Rhode Island residents, 21 years of age or older, to carry a concealed handgun, without a permit.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.