The proposed "Rhode Island Assault Weapons Ban Act of 2025" introduces CHAPTER 47.2 to Title 11 of the General Laws, establishing a comprehensive framework for the regulation of assault weapons in the state. The bill defines key terms such as "assault weapon," "detachable magazine," and "secure storage," and specifies that certain firearms, like those designed for .22 caliber rimfire ammunition, are excluded from the assault weapon classification. It prohibits the manufacture, sale, purchase, and possession of assault weapons, emphasizing secure storage to prevent unauthorized access. Individuals who possessed an assault weapon before the bill's effective date must register it, render it permanently inoperable, or surrender it to law enforcement within one year to avoid penalties, which can include up to ten years in prison or fines of up to $10,000.

The act also outlines a registration process for assault weapons, requiring a $25 fee and a fingerprint-supported criminal background check, while ensuring the confidentiality of registrants' information. Registered owners must adhere to specific possession conditions, such as keeping the weapon at home or on licensed shooting ranges, with violations leading to fines or imprisonment. The bill includes provisions for federally licensed firearm dealers and law enforcement agencies, allowing them certain exemptions. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and includes a severability clause to maintain the enforceability of remaining provisions if any part is invalidated.