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Rhode Island Gun Possession Laws (2026)
Restricted: Rhode Island has a red-flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, 2018) and a ban on large-capacity magazines, set at 10 rounds.
Rhode Island has a red-flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, 2018) and a ban on large-capacity magazines, set at 10 rounds. An assault-weapons ban is now in effect: under the Rhode Island State Assault Weapons Ban Act of 2025 (2025-H 5436 Sub A / S 0359, signed June 2025), as of July 1, 2026 it is illegal to manufacture, sell, offer to sell, transfer, or purchase a defined "prohibited firearm" (many semi-automatic rifles, shotguns and pistols with military-style features). Firearms lawfully owned before July 1, 2026 are grandfathered, so no registration is required, though owners may voluntarily obtain a certificate of possession. A violation can carry up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.
Official source: governor.ri.gov →
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Gun Possession in states bordering Rhode Island
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- ConnecticutRestricted
Connecticut has a red-flag law in effect, known as a risk warrant (CGS 29-38c), an assault-weapons ban from a 2013 law, and a 10-round magazine limit.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: cga.ct.gov · Full Connecticut rule →
- MassachusettsRestricted
Massachusetts has a red-flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Orders, or ERPOs), an assault-weapon ban, and a ban on large-capacity devices. The assault-weapon ban was broadened by 2024 Ch. 135.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: mass.gov · Full Massachusetts rule →
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