The bill amends several sections of the General Laws in Chapter 11-47, "Weapons," to introduce new definitions and provisions regarding firearms and concealed carry permits. A key addition is the definition of "suitable person," which identifies individuals eligible to possess a pistol or revolver and outlines criteria for being deemed unsuitable, such as posing a clear and present danger to themselves or others, or being a member of a criminal street gang. The bill establishes self-defense as a lawful reason for carrying a concealed weapon and mandates that the licensing authority approve or deny concealed carry permit applications within specified timeframes, with all permits recorded in the Rhode Island criminal history database.

It also allows for reciprocal recognition of concealed carry permits from other states under certain conditions, including age and verification requirements, and exempts active-duty law enforcement officers from specific restrictions. Further amendments include requirements for concealed carry license applications, such as submitting a copy of the instructor's credentials and using a standardized application form that collects detailed personal information, including two forms of identification and a federal bureau of investigation (FBI) fingerprint card.

The bill introduces an emergency permit extension for renewal applicants who need to maintain their license for work purposes and prohibits the licensing authority from imposing additional requirements beyond those specified in the bill. It revises the fee structure for obtaining a license, establishing a fee of forty dollars ($40.00) and allowing for an additional fee for emergency permit extensions. The act emphasizes confidentiality regarding license holders' personal information, stating that records related to carry permits and appeals are not public records.

Additionally, the bill establishes an appeal process for denied applications, requiring written notification of the reasons for denial and allowing for a request for reconsideration. It introduces a new section to hunting regulations, allowing the use of suppressors while hunting, provided the firearm complies with existing laws. The act aims to clarify the legal framework surrounding concealed carry permits and hunting practices involving suppressors.

Statutes affected:
2164: 38-2-2