The bill amends various sections of the General Laws in Rhode Island to include "Space Force" alongside other military branches in multiple legal contexts. It adds the term "Space Force" to definitions related to military service, exemptions from firearm restrictions, and other provisions. Active duty members of the Space Force, along with other military branches, are recognized in various legal contexts, including exemptions from certain firearm regulations.

The bill updates provisions related to the possession and carrying of firearms, ensuring that members of the Space Force are included in exemptions from obtaining a basic pistol/revolver safety certificate while on active duty. It also addresses the unlawful possession of loaded firearms in vehicles, with specific exemptions for military personnel.

Additionally, the bill criminalizes fraudulent claims of military status, known as "stolen valor," and expands eligibility for National Guard commissioned officers to include members of the Space Force. It updates retirement provisions to credit service in the Space Force and enhances support for veterans by including Space Force in various benefits and recognition programs, such as the veterans assistance fund and special motor vehicle registration plates.

The bill also strengthens protections for servicemembers during mortgage foreclosure proceedings and expands definitions within the Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act to include military status. Overall, the amendments aim to modernize the legal framework supporting military personnel and veterans in Rhode Island, ensuring that the Space Force is recognized alongside other branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Statutes affected:
625: 30-25-14, 34-12-5, 34-37-3
625  SUB A: 1-4-2, 9-18-5, 9-19-19, 11-70-1, 16-92-3, 30-17.1-1, 30-21-12, 30-27-2, 37-14.3-3, 34-27-4, 34-37-3, 44-53-8