A bill that would keep guns out of the hands of domestic abusers cleared the House Monday in a 55-12 vote. The legislation has drawn strong support, as well as vocal opposition, as it aims to close a loophole in Rhode Island’s gun laws.
Currently, most domestic abusers are unable to purchase firearms, but the state has no system for abusers to turn in guns already in their possession.
Under the proposal, anyone convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence crimes, or subject to a court-issued final protective order (temporary restraining orders are exempt), would have to turn in any guns they own.
Supporters, including the advocacy organization Everytown for Gun Safety, argue a woman is five times more likely to be killed in a domestic violence situation if a gun is present.
Opponents, like the National Rifle Association’s Institute for Legislative Action, argue this is an anti-firearm bill and violates people’s Second Amendment right.
With only a few days left in the legislative session, the bill now moves to the Senate.
