Last month, the Rhode Island 2024 legislative session adjourned sine die. This means the legislative session has concluded for the year.
Several sportsmen-related bills were introduced this year. Here is a wrap-up of how 2024 turned out for the sportsmen and gun owners of the Ocean State.
Defeated
H.7217, the “Rhode Island Assault Weapons Ban of 2024,” broadens the definition of “assault weapon,” which will include countless semi-automatic rifles and shotguns used for hunting, target shooting, and self-defense.
H.7268 requires the purchaser of a firearm to take and pass a basic firearm safety test, otherwise known as a firearm safety certificate or “blue card” and requires the firearm test administered by the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), to be updated every two years or the purchaser must have a basic hunter safety course certificate.
H.7269 prohibits the purchase of more than one firearm in any thirty (30) day period.
Signed into law:
H.7373 Sub A/S.2202 Sub A requires a firearm to be secured in a locked container or equipped with a tamper-resistant mechanical lock or other safety device, properly engaged to render such firearm inoperable by any person other than the owner or other lawfully authorized user. The Sportsmen’s Alliance believes in the safe storage of firearms, but not when the government requires exactly how this storage must take place in our own homes.
H.7294 Sub A/SB 2732 Sub A prohibits hunting where man-made structures and/or natural barriers limit an animal’s free movement. We reported issues with this bill due to the lack of clear and concise language, which is still a concern. Your Government Affairs team will continue to monitor this new law to ensure sportsmen are not adversely affected.
Takes Effect Without Governor’s Signature:
H.7730/S.2154 allows the taking of wild turkeys by using a crossbow in compliance with rules and regulations promulgated by DEM.
Even though the 2024 legislative session is over, the Government Affairs team will continue to monitor activities throughout the Ocean State. You never know when issues that sportsmen need to be aware of may arise.
Please share this message with your family and friends, as sportsmen throughout the state must continue to stay actively involved in defending our hunting, fishing, and trapping heritage for present and future generations to enjoy.
About the Sportsmen’s Alliance: The Sportsmen’s Alliance and its supporting Foundation protect and defend America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. The organization accomplishes this mission through several distinct programs, including public education, advocacy, litigation and research. Stay connected to the Sportsmen’s Alliance: Online, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
