2022 Firearms Legislation Package

On June 21, 2022, Governor Daniel McKee signed a package of three firearms bills into law, marking the most significant expansion of Rhode Island firearms regulation in over a decade^[1]. The legislation was passed in the wake of mass shootings in Buffalo, New York and Uvalde, Texas.

Large Capacity Magazine Ban

The centerpiece of the package was a ban on large capacity magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition. Under the new law, it became illegal to manufacture, sell, transfer, or possess a magazine that accepts more than 10 rounds. The law included a 180-day grace period for existing owners to modify, surrender, or transfer their magazines to a jurisdiction where they remain legal. Violations are a felony punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and/or a $5,000 fine^[2].

Age Requirement Raised to 21

The package raised the minimum age to purchase any firearm in Rhode Island from 18 to 21. This applied to both handguns and long guns. Previously, Rhode Island followed the federal framework allowing 18-year-olds to purchase rifles and shotguns. The new age requirement brought Rhode Island in line with a small number of states that have raised the purchase age above the federal minimum. Exceptions exist for active military personnel and law enforcement officers.

Ammunition Sales Requirements

The third bill created RIGL 11-47-64^[4], imposing substantial new requirements on ammunition purchases effective January 1, 2023. Under the statute, buyers must be at least 21 years old and must present a valid DEM pistol/revolver safety certificate (Blue Card), a Rhode Island hunter education card, or a License to Carry a Concealed Weapon (LCCW) at the point of sale. Dealers must verify the credential before completing the transaction. Violation of RIGL 11-47-64 is a felony punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment. The law applies to all ammunition types, not just handgun ammunition. Active and retired law enforcement, active duty military, and LCCW holders are exempt from the credential requirement but must still meet the age threshold. For a full breakdown of the ammunition law, see the dedicated article on Ammunition Purchase Requirements (2023 Law).

Legal Challenges

The large capacity magazine ban was immediately challenged in federal court. In Ocean State Tactical LLC v. Rhode Island, plaintiffs argued that the ban violated the Second Amendment under the framework established by the Supreme Court in NYSRPA v. Bruen^[3]. The case proceeded through the First Circuit Court of Appeals, where the ban was ultimately upheld.