The bill amends Section 11-47-9 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-47, which pertains to weapons, by introducing new provisions that expand the recognition of concealed handgun permits in Rhode Island. It grants the attorney general the authority to enter into agreements or formally approve reciprocal recognition with other states that require an agreement to recognize a Rhode Island concealed handgun permit as valid. The State of Rhode Island will recognize and honor a concealed handgun or concealed weapon permit issued by any other state or county, provided that: (1) the permit holder is a non-resident who is twenty-one (21) years of age or older; (2) the reciprocal state or county provides a means for instantaneous verification of the validity of all such permits or licenses, accessible twenty-four (24) hours a day; (3) the permit holder has in their possession the concealed handgun or concealed weapon permit along with a photo identification issued by a state or government agency and presents both for verification upon demand by a law enforcement officer; and (4) the permit holder is subject to the same laws and restrictions regarding carrying a concealed weapon or firearm as a resident of Rhode Island who is licensed.

Additionally, the bill recognizes an official government-issued law enforcement identification card from any other state or county for active-duty law enforcement officers, exempting them from the provisions of Section 11-47-8 and granting them the right to carry a concealed firearm throughout the state. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2153: 11-47-9