Rhode Island Senate Judiciary Committee Considers Assault Weapons Ban Legislation
The future of assault weapons legislation in Rhode Island hinges on the decision of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led by Senate President Valarie J. Lawson. If the committee votes in favor, attention will shift to the Senate floor, where Senator Louis P. DiPalma is optimistic about the bill’s passage, citing 24 co-sponsors in the 38-member Senate.
DiPalma introduced the bill to ban the sale and manufacture of assault-style weapons, echoing the sentiments of former Senate President Ruggerio, who has shifted his stance from advocating for federal action to considering state-level measures. During a Judiciary Committee meeting, DiPalma stressed the bill’s constitutional viability, referencing recent court rulings and historical context, particularly the tragic Sandy Hook shooting.
While a February 2025 poll found that 64% of Rhode Islanders support the ban, Senate Minority Whip Gordon E. Rogers voiced skepticism about its constitutionality, regarding expert opinions on the matter as subjective. He dismissed the poll results as potentially biased. Conversely, Rhode Island AFL-CIO President Patrick Crowley argued that addressing gun violence is a workplace issue, underscoring the need for legislative action.
The committee also heard from Tim Lachance of the National Sports Shooting Association, who argued against the ban, suggesting it would likely face legal challenges. Conversely, Greg Lickenbrock from Everytown for Gun Safety urged lawmakers to act decisively to prevent gun violence.
Meanwhile, a companion bill is being considered in the House, signifying a coordinated push for tighter gun control. House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi expressed concerns about certain bill provisions but is collaborating with Representative Jason Knight to refine the legislation.
As both chambers deliberate, all eyes are on how Rhode Island will navigate this contentious issue.
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