Creates process for individual to voluntarily be either temporarily or indefinitely added to a list restricting their rights to purchase or possess firearms. Adds civil fines and misdemeanor for violations.

Rhode Island Voluntary Firearm Restrictions Act – Plain English Summary

This bill would create a voluntary program in Rhode Island that allows individuals to add their own name to a list that restricts them from buying or possessing firearms. A person could choose to be placed on this list either temporarily (for a set period of time) or indefinitely. The goal is to give people a tool for suicide prevention and personal safety — allowing someone who is concerned about their own mental state or well-being to proactively limit their own access to guns.

The process would be initiated by the individual themselves, meaning no one can place another person on this list without their consent. Once on the list, the person would be flagged during standard background checks, preventing licensed firearm dealers from selling them a gun. If someone wants to be removed from the list, there would presumably be a process to do so, though the temporary or indefinite nature of the restriction suggests different procedures may apply depending on what the person originally chose.

The bill also establishes consequences for violations. People who attempt to purchase or possess firearms while on the list, or dealers who knowingly sell to someone on the list, could face civil fines or misdemeanor criminal charges. This enforcement component is meant to make the voluntary restriction meaningful and enforceable, not just symbolic.

This bill primarily affects Rhode Island residents who choose to enroll in the program, as well as firearm dealers who would need to honor the restrictions during sales. It does not apply to anyone who does not voluntarily opt in, and it does not change existing firearm laws for the general public.