Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee has signed into law a sweeping ban on the sale, manufacture, and transfer of military-style firearms, marking a significant shift in the state’s gun control policies. The legislation, effective July 1, 2026, prohibits certain semi-automatic rifles and shotguns, with offenders facing up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Democrats, including House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, hail the law as a historic measure aimed at enhancing public safety following national tragedies linked to gun violence. However, Rhode Island GOP Chairman Joe Powers argues that the law is unconstitutional and will not effectively protect citizens, vowing to challenge its implementation in court. This contentious move follows a series of gun control measures under McKee’s administration, including raising the gun purchase age to 21.
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