Specifies that it is unlawful for any person under the age of eighteen (18) to possess a firearm.

Plain-English Summary

This Rhode Island bill would make it illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to possess a firearm. The bill clarifies or strengthens existing state law by specifically stating that minors — anyone younger than 18 years old — cannot legally have a gun in their possession. It has been introduced in the state Senate and sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee for review.

The bill would primarily affect Rhode Island residents under the age of 18, as well as their parents or guardians who may currently allow minors access to firearms. It is not yet clear from the bill's description whether there are any exceptions built in — for example, many states include exceptions for supervised hunting, sport shooting, or firearm safety courses. If this bill contains no exceptions, it would be a stricter standard than some existing state laws that allow minors to use firearms under adult supervision in certain settings.

Anyone who violates this law — meaning a minor found in possession of a firearm — could potentially face criminal penalties, though the specific consequences are not detailed in the bill's description. Law enforcement officials would be responsible for enforcing the new rule. The bill is still in its early stages, having just been introduced and referred to committee, meaning it has not yet been debated, amended, or voted on.