The "Rhode Island Assault Weapons Ban Act of 2025" establishes a new chapter in Title 11 of the General Laws, implementing regulations on the manufacture, sale, purchase, and possession of assault weapons in the state, effective July 1, 2026. The bill defines "assault weapons" based on specific features, including certain semi-automatic shotguns, rifles, and pistols, and imposes penalties for violations, including imprisonment of up to ten years and fines up to $10,000.

The act provides for "grandfathered assault weapons," allowing individuals who lawfully possessed these weapons before July 1, 2026, to retain them under specific conditions. To facilitate compliance, the bill introduces a process for obtaining a voluntary certificate of possession for grandfathered assault weapons, which must be applied for before the ban takes effect. This certificate serves as proof of lawful ownership and outlines permissible circumstances for possession, such as at home, on licensed shooting ranges, or during transportation for servicing.

Violations of possession rules can lead to fines, imprisonment, and weapon forfeiture. The bill also includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any provision is held invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable.