H7035 / S2295 (2026): One Gun Per 30 Days Purchase Limit

House Bill 7035 (Rep. Boylan, Caldwell, Tanzi, and others) and Senate Bill 2295 (Sens. McKenney, LaMountain, Bissaillon, and others) would limit firearm purchases to one per 30-day period in Rhode Island^[1].

What the Bills Would Change

Currently, Rhode Island has no limit on the number of firearms a person can purchase within a given time period (beyond the existing 7-day waiting period for handguns). These companion bills would add a 30-day cooling-off period between purchases. The following exemptions would apply:

• Law enforcement officers (active duty)
• Firearms received through inheritance
• Purchases made during approved training courses
• Range rentals (temporary possession at licensed facilities)
• Licensed collectors (with valid collector's license)

How It Compares

Several states have enacted similar one-gun-per-month laws. Virginia had such a law from 1993 to 2012, then repealed it, then reenacted it in 2020. California, Maryland, and New Jersey currently have purchase frequency limits. Proponents argue these laws reduce straw purchasing and firearms trafficking. Opponents argue they infringe on lawful purchasers' rights without meaningfully reducing crime.

Current Status

Both bills have been referred to their respective Judiciary Committees. No hearing dates have been scheduled^[2].