Allows a person over 18 to purchase a stun gun or electronic dart gun and prohibits the sale of a stun gun or electronic dart gun to a person under 18 and criminalizes using a stun gun or electronic dart gun in a crime or against a police officer.

Rhode Island Bill Summary: Stun Gun and Electronic Dart Gun Regulations

This bill would change Rhode Island law to allow adults 18 and older to legally purchase stun guns and electronic dart guns (such as Tasers). Currently, Rhode Island has restrictions on these devices, and this bill would establish a clearer legal framework for who can buy and own them. At the same time, the bill would make it illegal for anyone to sell these devices to people under the age of 18.

The bill also creates specific criminal penalties for misusing these weapons. If someone uses a stun gun or electronic dart gun while committing a crime, or if they use one against a law enforcement officer, that would be treated as a separate criminal offense under this legislation. This means someone who commits a crime with one of these devices could face additional charges beyond the original offense.

This bill would affect several groups of people. Retailers who sell these devices would need to verify the age of buyers and refuse sales to minors. Adults in Rhode Island who want to purchase a stun gun or similar device for personal protection would have a clearer legal right to do so. Law enforcement officers would receive additional legal protections, since using one of these weapons against them would carry specific criminal consequences.

The bill has been introduced in the House and referred to the House Judiciary Committee, where it is scheduled for a hearing. It has not yet been voted on or signed into law.