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 years of age and older to legally purchase stun guns and electronic dart guns (commonly known as Tasers). Currently, Rhode Island has restrictions on these devices, and this legislation would establish a clearer legal framework for who can buy them and how they can be used.

The bill creates specific rules around these weapons in two key ways. First, it sets an age restriction by making it illegal for anyone to sell a stun gun or electronic dart gun to a person under 18 years old. Second, it makes it a crime to use one of these devices while committing a crime or to use one against a law enforcement officer. This means that while adults could legally purchase and possess these devices, using them in a harmful or unlawful way would carry criminal consequences.

This bill would affect several groups of people. Retailers who sell these devices would need to verify a buyer's age before completing a sale. Adults who want to own a stun gun or electronic dart gun for personal protection would have a clearer legal path to do so. Anyone who uses one of these devices against a police officer or as part of committing another crime would face additional criminal charges. The bill has been introduced and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where it will be reviewed before any further action is taken.