Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2153

Introduced
1/16/26  

Caption

Allows attorney general to enter into agreements with other states to recognize a concealed handgun permit as valid and authorizes RI to recognize and honor a concealed weapon permit from out of state with certain requirements.

Impact

The passage of S2153 would significantly alter the current landscape of firearm regulations in Rhode Island. By recognizing permits from other states, the bill would enhance the rights of out-of-state residents to carry concealed firearms within Rhode Island, assuming the out-of-state laws are compatible with state regulations. This could lead to an increase in out-of-state individuals carrying firearms in Rhode Island and a potential rise in debates over gun safety and regulation standards.

Summary

S2153 is a bill introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly aimed at amending existing laws related to concealed carry permits. The bill allows the Attorney General to enter agreements with other states to recognize concealed handgun permits from those states. This means that Rhode Island would recognize a concealed handgun permit or license issued by another state, provided certain conditions are met, such as the permit holder being at least 21 years old and having proper identification at all times.

Contention

Notably, the provisions within S2153 have sparked discussions surrounding public safety and local control over firearms. Advocates of the bill argue that it promotes the rights of citizens to carry firearms, enhancing personal safety and self-defense. However, opponents raise concerns about the implications of allowing non-residents to carry concealed weapons, fearing that it may lead to a decline in local regulations designed to control firearm sales and ownership effectively. The complexity of ensuring that out-of-state permit holders conform to Rhode Island laws poses another potential area of contention.

Summary_conclusion

Ultimately, S2153's approach to recognizing concealed carry permits from other states reflects ongoing national debates about gun rights and regulations. Its passage would necessitate careful monitoring and potential adjustments to maintain a balance between rights and public safety within the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0146

Allows reciprocal concealed carry permits from out of state to be valid in Rhode Island, which is either authorized by the attorney general or subject to other reciprocal restrictions.

RI S0142

Permits Rhode Island residents, 21 years of age or older, to carry a concealed handgun, without a permit.

RI H5935

Expands firearm rights to recognize out of state carry permits, authorizes weapons carried during emergency evacuation and establishes an appeal process for permit denied.

RI H5654

Prohibits local licensing authorities from issuing a concealed carry permit to out of state residents based on permits issued by authorities from other states or subdivisions.

RI S0137

Defines suitable person, establishes reasons for applying for concealed carry permit, establishes what information is required on applications, establishes appeal process for denials, provides that records are not public permits hunting with suppressor.

RI H6042

Exempts certain U.S. employees from having to obtain state licenses to carry a visible or concealed pistol or revolver.

RI S0280

Replaces state marshals with capitol police as to those law enforcement officers being exempt from certain firearm restrictions.

RI H6242

Replaces state marshals with capitol police as to those law enforcement officers being exempt from certain firearm restrictions.

RI S0345

Allows for the enactment of the dietitian licensure compact permitting a licensed dietitian from another state to become licensed within the state, and also permitting a dietitian licensed by the state to become licensed in another compact state.

RI H5067

Allows for the enactment of the dietitian licensure compact permitting a licensed dietitian from another state to become licensed within the state, and also permitting a dietitian licensed by the state to become licensed in another compact state.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.