VICTORY: Rhode Island bans the sale of assault rifles

WASHINGTON — GIFFORDS, the national gun violence prevention organization led by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, praised Governor Dan McKee and lawmakers in the Rhode Island legislature for passing a ban on the sale of assault-style rifles. By banning the manufacture and sale of assault-style rifles, Senate Bill 359 will help curb access to firearms commonly used in mass shootings.

“This law is a meaningful step toward preventing shootings and keeping Rhode Island communities safe,” said GIFFORDS Executive Director Emma Brown. “By limiting access to high-powered firearms that have been used in some of the deadliest mass shootings, lawmakers are helping to keep these weapons out of the hands of people who shouldn’t have them. We commend Governor McKee and the legislature for prioritizing public safety and taking action to save lives.”

Assault weapons with large magazines are frequently used in mass shootings because they can fire many rounds quickly. While the state had the fourth-lowest gun death rate in the country in 2023, gun deaths in Rhode Island still rose by 62% over the past decade — nearly double the national increase of 33%. This new law is a critical move to reverse that trend and ensure Rhode Island continues to lead in the fight to end gun violence.