Exempts certain U.S. employees from having to obtain state licenses to carry a visible or concealed pistol or revolver.
Impact
If passed, H6042 would allow specified federal employees to carry firearms without the need for a state-issued license, thereby aligning state regulations with federal standards for these individuals. This exemption aims to uphold the authority of federal employees who may be engaged in law enforcement or security duties, thereby facilitating their responsibilities while ensuring their rights to bear arms are maintained under local laws.
Summary
House Bill 6042 seeks to amend provisions concerning the licensing requirements for carrying firearms, specifically pertaining to concealed carry permits in the state of Rhode Island. This bill proposes to exempt certain U.S. federal employees, such as law enforcement officers, from the existing state mandate that requires individuals to obtain a license to carry either a visible or concealed pistol or revolver. The goal of this amendment is to streamline firearm carry regulations for those already recognized under federal law as permitted to carry firearms.
Contention
The proposal may lead to debates regarding the balance between public safety and the rights of individuals to carry firearms without additional state regulations. Critics might argue that carving out exemptions for federal employees could complicate enforcement of existing firearm laws, leading to potential inconsistencies and confusion. Conversely, supporters could assert that this measure is necessary to honor the federal laws governing law enforcement capabilities and ensure that those who are trained and authorized to carry firearms can do so without bureaucratic hindrances.
Exempts full-time members of the capitol police from the seven (7) day waiting period and other requirements for purchasing concealable firearms or rifles and shotguns.
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.
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.
Expands firearm rights to recognize out of state carry permits, authorizes weapons carried during emergency evacuation and establishes an appeal process for permit denied.
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.
Exempts full-time members of divisions of the state police, including the capitol police and the sheriff's department from the requirements of ยง 11-47-35.