Gov. Dan McKee Takes Bold Action to Strengthen Gun Safety Laws

Today, Gov. Dan McKee took swift action to reduce gun violence by signing a legislative package strengthening commonsense gun safety laws.

“Here in Rhode Island, we’re taking meaningful action to address the scourge of gun violence and keep our residents safe,” said Gov. McKee. “These measures will help save lives.”

One of the laws will ban high-capacity magazines, which have enabled numerous mass shootings, including the recent Uvalde, Texas and Buffalo, New York massacres. The legislative package also raises the legal age to purchase firearms to 21 and prohibits the open carry of rifles and shotguns in public.

Here’s what people are saying about the new gun safety laws:

• Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association President Sean Corrigan: “The Rhode Island Police Chiefs’ Association (RIPCA) supports all efforts to save lives from gun violence, and the signing of these three bills will enhance existing gun laws in a manner that properly balances individual constitutional rights and public safety.”

• Moms Demand Action Founder Shannon Watts: “Following the horrific mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde, in addition to the countless communities torn apart by gun violence, Rhode Island lawmakers have taken decisive action that will save lives.”

• RI Coalition Against Gun Violence Board Chair: “It has taken 10 years of hard work and collaboration to build the support needed for these three lifesaving bills to pass … we have committed to creating policy that saves lives and protects our families, children, and communities from further gun violence.”

###