The bill amends Section 11-47-5 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-47, titled "Weapons," to prohibit individuals who have been convicted of certain crimes from possessing firearms. Specifically, it introduces new legal language that states individuals who have entered a plea of nolo contendere or have been convicted of a misdemeanor offense, and who have been sentenced under the hate crime sentencing enhancement act, are barred from purchasing, owning, carrying, transporting, or possessing firearms. The bill outlines various offenses that would lead to this prohibition, including crimes of violence, being a fugitive from justice, and specific misdemeanor offenses such as simple assault and cyberstalking.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the prohibition applies until the individual's conviction is expunged or they complete a one-year filing or probationary period. It also maintains existing restrictions on firearm possession for individuals subject to certain court orders or those in community confinement. Violations of this section would result in a mandatory prison sentence of two to ten years without the possibility of suspension, deferment, or probation. The act is set to take effect upon passage.