Firearms on School Grounds (Section 11-47-60)

Rhode Island General Laws Section 11-47-60^[1] prohibits any person from possessing a firearm on the grounds of any public or private school, including elementary schools, secondary schools, and school-sponsored activities. This prohibition applies regardless of whether the person holds a License to Carry a Concealed Weapon (LCCW) issued under Section 11-47-11 or Section 11-47-18.

Scope of the Prohibition

"School grounds" encompasses buildings, athletic facilities, parking lots, and any other property owned or controlled by a school for educational purposes. The prohibition applies during school hours and during school-sponsored events. Unlike the federal Gun-Free School Zones Act (18 U.S.C. Section 922(q))^[2], which creates a 1,000-foot perimeter zone, the Rhode Island statute is limited to the school property itself.

Penalties

Violation of Section 11-47-60 is a felony. A person convicted of possessing a firearm on school grounds faces imprisonment of not less than one year and not more than five years, a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500) and not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000), or both, and forfeiture of the firearm^[1]. The one-year minimum means this offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence. The court may also order revocation of the person's concealed carry permit if one was held at the time of the offense.

Mandatory Notification Requirements

Section 11-47-60.2^[3] imposes an affirmative duty on school officials. Any teacher, counselor, or administrator who has knowledge of or reason to believe that a person possesses a firearm on school grounds must immediately notify law enforcement. Failure to report is itself an offense. This reporting obligation exists independently of any criminal liability for the person possessing the firearm.

Exceptions

The statute provides limited exceptions for law enforcement officers acting in their official capacity, authorized security personnel employed by the school, and persons participating in school-authorized firearms safety programs. Members of the military in the performance of official duties are also exempt. There is no exception for licensed concealed carry holders who are simply picking up or dropping off students.