The bill amends sections of the General Laws in Chapter 11-47, titled "Weapons," to introduce new regulations regarding the carrying of firearms in Rhode Island. It establishes that individuals must have a license or permit to carry a pistol or revolver, with specific exceptions for those holding valid licenses from other states. The bill also prohibits the possession of certain firearms and devices, such as machine guns, sawed-off shotguns, bump-fire devices, ghost guns, and undetectable firearms, with severe penalties for violations. Additionally, it outlines the consequences for possessing firearms while engaged in drug-related activities.

Furthermore, the bill allows lawful residents aged twenty-one (21) and older to carry a concealed handgun without a permit, provided they meet specific conditions: (1) possessing a certificate of qualification issued by an N.R.A. instructor or a police range officer, which must include details such as the date of qualification and a passing score; (2) having a pistol/revolver safety certificate or hunter safety certificate recognized by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management; and (3) carrying valid photo identification issued by a state or governmental agency, which must be presented upon demand by law enforcement.

The act clarifies that no license or permit is required for transporting firearms to and from target practice ranges, as long as the firearms are unloaded and properly secured. The act is set to take effect upon passage.