Political Action Update

March 19, 2025 Political Action - YELLOW SHIRTS REQUESTED TO ATTEND - GLOCESTER TOWN HALL

I am writing to request anyone who can attend the Town Council Meeting in Glocester, RI tomorrow evening (Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 7:00 p.m., at the Glocester Town Hall). The Town of Glocester will be updating/declaring new resolutions as a Sanctuary Town to push back against any upcoming legislation. We need a large crowd of Yellow Shirts.

This procedure was done by many Towns in Rhode Island over the past few years and was started by:

WE THE PEOPLE of R.I. for 2A Preservation. This group was established with a grassroots movement for pushback from towns to the State of RI declaring a 2A sanctuary.

Technically speaking, most unconstitutional bans are "unfunded mandates" the state says they aren't responsible to store or monitor with any type of security or climate control to preserve our property (firearms) either willingly surrendered or confiscated. The state has no locations to keep all our property (firearms), they can't destroy it because it's not federally banned. It would have to be returned in the exact condition if anyone retrieves their property (firearms) after a SCOTUS decision. So, the taxpayers of every town will be responsible to provide and pay for all storage of surrendered or confiscated firearms. This is how Sanctuary Resolutions get declared.

Stay tuned ... more Towns are updating/declaring new Resolutions to push back against upcoming legislation.

Thank you.

Maureen Fontneau/ Political Action Committee

March 15, 2025 Political Action Update

POLITICAL ACTION – WHERE TO GET YELLOW SHIRTS AND

VOTING/DISAFFILIATION REMINDER

TO: All WLRGC Members

YELLOW SHIRTS:
Check with the following places to see if they have an inventory of yellow shirts.
Federated Sportsman Club yellow shirts should be available at: Bullseye Shooting Supplies Inc.,
Big Bear Hunting and Fishing, D&L Shooting Supplies and Sportsman’s Association of Rhode
Island.
Also heard that Surplus Provisions LLC has 2A related yellow shirts as well.
Of course, any yellow shirt will work.

RIGUNRIGHTS.COM has a disaffiliation Strategy
This strategy aims to remove anti-gun incumbents where they’re weakest: Their own primary.
It’s not about party loyalty; it’s about taking action before it’s too late. By disaffiliating, and
voting against incumbents, we send a clear message, disrupt their re-election plans, and clear
the way for pro-gun candidates in the general election.

Thank you
Maureen Fontneau
Political Action
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

March 10, 2025 Political Action Update..

*** Sample letters to send to your local politicians ***

RHODE ISLAND ASSAULT WEAPONS BAN ACT OF 2025

TO: All WLRGC Members:

The following are sample letters and information for you to use to personalize a letter to send to your representative in the House. Opposition to House Bill: H-5436

You may want to copy and paste information from various sample letters to use for your letter. Try to change the first sentence or the first paragraph to make it your own. We have been told if they see the exact same formatted letter they throw them away.

Please email or fax your correspondence.

SAMPLE LETTERS / INFORMATION TO USE:

Date:

Dear Representative (NAME):

Re: Opposition to House Bill: H-5436

As a resident of Rhode Island, I oppose the Assault Weapons Ban. This will have an adverse effect on law-abiding citizens and the many businesses who support the 2A community.

Recent statistics show that Rhode Island has one of the lowest firearm-related death rates in the country. According to the most recent finalized date from the CDC, Rhode Island saw 37 gun-related deaths in 2022, with a significant portion attributed to suicides rather than criminal activity. This marked a 45% decrease from the previous year. Additionally, provisional data for 2023 indicates that Rhode Island’s firearm death rate was 4.8 per 100,000 people – 65% lower than the national average.

Over the past decade, Rhode Island has seen a 41% decline in gun deaths, even as the national rate increased by 36%. These figures demonstrate that our state does not have widespread gun violence issue and remains one of the safest in the nation.

While any instance of gun violence is tragic, the data suggests Rhode Island’s current policies and community safety measures are effective. It is crucial that policy discussions acknowledge these facts and avoid unnecessary restrictions that may not be needed in a state with such a low rate of firearm-related incidents.

This ban will also have an adverse effect on our tax base and programs that are supported by the 2A community. For example:

In fiscal year 2023, Rhode Island received a total of $7,176,940 from the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration funds. This funding is allocated as follows:

• Basic Hunter Education: $2,287,717

• Enhanced Hunter Education: $80,000

• Wildlife Restoration Projects: $4,809,223

These funds are used to support various wildlife conservation initiatives, hunter education programs, and the development and maintenance of shooting ranges within the state. For example, in January 2023, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management utilized a $1.25 million grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Wildlife Restoration Program to permanently protect 125 acres of forested land in North Kingstown for public recreational use, including hunting. (Department of Environmental Management)

The Pittman-Robertson Act generates funds through an excise tax on firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment. These funds are then distributed to state wildlife agencies based on a formula that considers both the land area of the state and the number of paid hunting license holders. (Environment America)

For a comprehensive breakdown of the 2023 apportionment to all states, you can refer to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's official document. (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

Subject: The Link Between Gun and Ammo Sales and Conservation Funding

Rhode Island – Economic Impact of Arms, Ammunition and Hunting Industries:

DIRECT

JOBS WAGES OUTPUT

535$ 45,912,300.$ 178,026,300.

SUPPLIERS

369$ 31,703,200$ 104,478,800.

INDUCED

405$ 26,254,100$ 76,306,500

TOTAL

1309$ 103,869,600$ 358,811,600

Average Wage: $79,350.00 Business Taxes: $33,818,600.00

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

(your name)

(address) and contact information

SAMPLE LETTER:

Dear [Official's Name],

I hope you're doing well. I wanted to bring to your attention the important role that firearm and ammunition sales play in funding conservation efforts through the Pittman-Robertson Act. Under this Act, an excise tax is imposed on the sale of firearms and ammunition, with the revenue being distributed to state wildlife agencies for critical conservation programs, habitat restoration, and hunter education.

For example, in 2023, Rhode Island received $7,176,940 in Pittman-Robertson funds. These resources directly support projects that protect and manage wildlife habitats, as well as maintain educational programs for hunters. A notable recent example is the protection of 125 acres of forested land in North Kingstown, which was preserved for public recreational use, including hunting and outdoor education. This kind of land acquisition is an essential part of Rhode Island’s long-term conservation strategy, helping to maintain biodiversity and provide public access to nature.

Additionally, these funds are integral in developing and maintaining shooting ranges and educating future generations of hunters, ensuring sustainable wildlife management. It’s a unique and effective system where funding from firearms and ammunition sales directly benefits the environment and local communities.

I hope this information helps clarify the positive impact that excise taxes on firearms and ammunition have on conservation efforts in our state and across the country.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

(Address) and contact information

SAMPLE LETTER:

Dear [Official's Name]

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to bring to your attention some important data regarding gun-related deaths in Rhode Island. Recent statistics show that Rhode Island has one of the lowest firearm-related death rates in the country.

According to the most recent finalized data from the CDC, Rhode Island saw 37 gun-related deaths in 2022, with a significant portion attributed to suicides rather than criminal activity. This marked a nearly 45% decrease from the previous year. Additionally, provisional data for 2023 indicates that Rhode Island’s firearm death rate was 4.8 per 100,000 people—65% lower than the national average.

Over the past decade, Rhode Island has seen a 41% decline in gun deaths, even as the national rate increased by 36%. These figures demonstrate that our state does not have a widespread gun violence issue and remains one of the safest in the nation.

While any instance of gun violence is tragic, the data suggests that Rhode Island’s current policies and community safety measures are effective. It is crucial that policy discussions acknowledge these facts and avoid unnecessary restrictions that may not be needed in a state with such a low rate of firearm-related incidents.

I appreciate your time and consideration on this matter. Please feel free to reach out if you would like to discuss these statistics further.

Best regards,

(your name)

(address) and contact information

SAMPLE INFORMATION

Debunking the Myth: Civilian Semi-Automatic Rifles vs. Military-Grade Firearms

As an elected official, it’s important to base firearm policy on facts, not misconceptions. The claim that civilian semi-automatic rifles are as combat-effective as military weapons is inaccurate. Key differences in firing capability, rate of fire, and tactical use make civilian rifles far less effective in combat. Fully automatic military weapons provide sustained fire and suppressive capabilities, which semi-automatic rifles simply do not have. As you consider firearm regulations, I urge you to distinguish between military-grade weapons and legally owned civilian firearms to ensure policies are both effective and constitutional.

The claim that civilian semi-automatic rifles, like the AR-15, are as combat-effective as military weapons is misleading. The key difference is firing capability—civilian rifles are semi-automatic (one shot per trigger pull), while military rifles like the M4 and M16 have select-fire modes, including fully automatic fire.

This drastically impacts rate of fire. A semi-automatic rifle fires 45–60 rounds per minute, while a fully automatic military rifle can fire 700–900 rounds per minute. This high-volume fire allows suppressive tactics, a key feature of military weapons that civilian rifles lack.

While both can use 30-round magazines, reloading speed is not the defining factor in combat effectiveness—sustained firepower is. Semi-automatic rifles do not provide continuous fire, making them ineffective for true combat scenarios.

In conclusion, semi-automatic rifles are not military-grade weapons. They lack the firepower, suppressive capability, and combat utility of fully automatic firearms, making comparisons between them inaccurate. Gun laws should be based on facts, not misconceptions.

I appreciate your time and consideration on this matter.

Please feel free to contact me to discuss further.

Sincerely,

(Name)

(Address and contact information)

SAMPLE INFORMATION for your letter: (100 Words)

As an elected official, it’s crucial to base firearm policy on facts. The claim that civilian semi-automatic rifles, like the AR-15, are as combat-effective as military weapons is inaccurate. Military rifles, like the M4, have select-fire capabilities, including fully automatic fire, allowing suppressive tactics that semi-automatic rifles lack. While both can use 30-round magazines, sustained firepower—not magazine size—defines combat effectiveness. Fully automatic weapons are already heavily restricted, with no legally owned full-auto firearm used in a violent crime since 1986. Semi-automatic rifles are not military-grade, and policy decisions should reflect this reality.

Sample (200 Words)

As an elected official, it’s essential to base firearm policy on facts. The idea that civilian semi-automatic rifles, like the AR-15, are as combat-effective as military weapons is misleading. The key difference is firing capability—semi-automatic rifles fire one shot per trigger pull, while military weapons like the M4 feature fully automatic modes, allowing for sustained suppressive fire that civilian firearms cannot achieve.

While both military and civilian rifles can use 30-round magazines, sustained firepower—not magazine capacity—defines combat effectiveness. A semi-automatic rifle fires 45–60 rounds per minute, while a military rifle can fire 700–900 rounds per minute, making a dramatic difference in tactical effectiveness.

Fully automatic weapons have been heavily regulated since 1934 under the National Firearms Act (NFA), with additional restrictions from the Hughes Amendment (1986). No legally owned full-auto firearm has been used in a violent crime since 1986, demonstrating the effectiveness of existing regulations.

In conclusion, semi-automatic rifles are not military-grade weapons. They lack the firepower and combat utility of fully automatic firearms. Gun laws should be based on technical facts, not misconceptions. I encourage you to consider these distinctions when reviewing firearm legislation.

Sample (300 Words)

As an elected official, it is crucial to ensure that firearm policy is based on facts, not misconceptions. One common misunderstanding is the claim that civilian semi-automatic rifles, like the AR-15, are as combat-effective as military weapons. This is inaccurate due to key differences in firing capability, rate of fire, and tactical use.

Firing capability is the most significant distinction. Civilian rifles are semi-automatic, requiring one trigger pull per shot, while military rifles, such as the M4, have select-fire capability, allowing them to fire fully automatic bursts. This dramatically impacts rate of fire—a semi-automatic rifle fires 45–60 rounds per minute, while a fully automatic M4 can fire 700–900 rounds per minute. This high rate of fire allows suppressive fire, a key military tactic that civilian rifles simply cannot replicate.

Some argue that magazine capacity makes civilian rifles comparable to military firearms, but this is misleading. While both can use 30-round magazines, sustained firepower—not magazine size—is the defining factor in combat effectiveness. A semi-automatic rifle’s slower rate of fire prevents it from being a true battlefield weapon.

Fully automatic weapons are already heavily regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and the Hughes Amendment of 1986. No legally owned full-auto firearm has been used in a violent crime since 1986, proving these laws work.

In conclusion, semi-automatic rifles are not military-grade weapons. They lack the firepower, suppressive capability, and combat utility of fully automatic firearms. I urge you to consider these technical distinctions when evaluating firearm legislation to ensure that policies are both effective and based on reality. Please feel free to reach out if you would like to discuss this further.

Best Regards,

(name)

(address and contact information)

THIS SAMPLE LETTER WAS PROVIDED BY BOB HEWETT:

Advocacy for the Rights of Semi-Automatic Firearms in Rhode Island

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Date]

[Legislator’s Name]

[Legislator’s Office Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Legislator’s Name],

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the potential legislation aimed at banning semi-automatic firearms in the state of Rhode Island. As a law-abiding citizen and responsible firearm owner, I believe it is crucial to consider the implications of such a ban from a non-partisan perspective, grounded in factual data and statistics.

Semi-automatic firearms are widely used by millions of Americans for various legitimate purposes, including self-defense, sport shooting, and hunting. According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 72% of gun owners cite protection as a major reason for owning a firearm. Furthermore, the National Shooting Sports Foundation estimates that there are over 16 million modern sporting rifles, which are semi-automatic, in civilian hands across the United States. These firearms are used safely and responsibly by the vast majority of their owners.

It is essential to differentiate between the lawful use of semi-automatic firearms and their misuse in criminal activities. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program indicates that rifles, including semi-automatic rifles, are involved in a relatively small percentage of firearm-related homicides. For instance, in 2019, rifles accounted for only 364 of the 10,258 firearm-related murders in the United States, which is approximately 3.5%.

Moreover, a comprehensive study by the RAND Corporation found no conclusive evidence that bans on the sale of assault weapons and high-capacity magazines had a significant effect on mass shootings or violent crime rates. This highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to gun control that addresses the root causes of gun violence, such as mental health issues, rather than focusing solely on the type of firearm.

In addition to the lack of clear evidence supporting the efficacy of semi-automatic firearm bans, it is important to consider the potential unintended consequences of such legislation. A ban could disproportionately affect law-abiding citizens who rely on these firearms for self-defense and recreational activities. It could also lead to a black market for these firearms, making it more challenging for law enforcement to track and regulate their use.

Instead of implementing a blanket ban on semi-automatic firearms, I urge you to consider alternative measures that can more effectively address gun violence while respecting the rights of responsible gun owners. These measures could include:

• Enhanced background checks to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands.

• Improved mental health support and intervention programs to address the root causes of gun violence.

• Increased funding for law enforcement agencies to combat illegal gun trafficking and criminal activity.

• Promoting safe storage practices and firearm education programs to prevent accidents and unauthorized access.

In conclusion, I respectfully request that you carefully consider the available data and the perspectives of responsible gun owners before supporting any legislation that seeks to ban semi-automatic firearms. By focusing on evidence-based solutions and addressing the underlying causes of gun violence, we can work together to create a safer Rhode Island for all its residents.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I look forward to your response and hope to engage in a constructive dialogue on this important issue.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

(Address and contact information)

SAMPLE: 1 of 1

NOTE: A few representatives who support us told me that the impact on minority communities will be quite severe. These samples for your review.

Subject: The Urgent Need for Self-Defense Among BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Communities

Dear [Official's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out to express my deep concerns regarding the safety of marginalized communities, specifically Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and LGBTQ+ individuals. These communities are increasingly facing targeted violence, and as such, their right to self-defense has never been more important.

BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals often experience a higher rate of hate crimes and violence due to their identities. The tragic events like the Pulse nightclub shooting, the Club Q attack, and countless others are stark reminders of the risks these communities face. These incidents are not isolated; they reflect a dangerous trend of violent targeting and intolerance.

For many people in the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, feeling safe in their own homes and public spaces is no longer a given. The rise in violent attacks has left many feeling vulnerable and fearful for their lives. This is especially true for those who live in areas where law enforcement may be slow to respond or where marginalized individuals do not always feel protected by the system meant to serve them.

As a result of these increasing threats, many in these communities are seeking firearms as a means of self-defense. While no one should feel compelled to arm themselves, the reality is that BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those who face direct threats of violence, often find that firearms provide them with the security they need. Guns can act as an equalizer, helping those who may be physically smaller or more vulnerable to defend themselves against attackers.

One concern that has been raised is the potential ban on assault weapons. For many in high-risk communities, these weapons are seen as an essential tool for self-defense. Assault rifles like the AR-15 are favored for their power, accuracy, and capacity to defend against attackers who may be armed with similar or more dangerous firearms.

A ban on assault weapons would limit access to the very tools that many marginalized individuals rely on to protect themselves from harm. Without access to these weapons, they could be left vulnerable, with fewer options to defend against a growing threat of violence.

The need for self-defense among BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals is undeniable. With increasing violence directed toward these communities, the ability to protect oneself is not just a matter of personal security; it is a matter of survival. I urge you to consider the implications of any proposed bans on firearms that could prevent marginalized communities from having the tools they need to safeguard their lives.

Thank you for your time and attention to this important issue. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on how we can ensure the safety and security of all individuals, regardless of their background or identity.

Sincerely,
[Name]
[Address]
[Contact Information]

SAMPLE 2 of 2

Subject: The Urgent Need for Self-Defense Among BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Communities

Dear [Official's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my concern about the growing threats of violence facing marginalized communities, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and LGBTQ+ individuals. Given the escalating risk these communities are facing, their right to self-defense has become more crucial than ever.

BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals are disproportionately targeted by hate crimes and violence due to their identities. Tragic incidents such as the Pulse nightclub shooting and the recent Club Q attack serve as painful reminders of the real dangers these communities face daily. Unfortunately, these attacks are not isolated; they are part of a larger trend of violent targeting based on race, gender identity, and sexual orientation.

For many people in these communities, feeling safe in public spaces or even in their own homes is a luxury they can no longer afford. The rise in hate crimes and violence has left many BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals fearful for their lives. This is particularly true for those who live in areas where they may not receive timely law enforcement protection or where they feel marginalized by systems that are meant to protect everyone.

In response to these growing threats, many individuals from these communities have turned to firearms for self-defense. While no one should feel forced to own a weapon, the reality is that many BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those who have been directly threatened, view firearms as a necessary means of protection. For them, firearms act as an equalizer, enabling those who may be physically smaller or more vulnerable to defend themselves against potentially dangerous attackers.

One issue I would like to address is the potential ban on assault weapons. For many in high-risk communities, weapons like the AR-15 are seen as critical tools for self-defense. These firearms are valued for their power, accuracy, and capacity to protect against attackers who may be armed with similar or more dangerous weapons.

A ban on assault weapons would limit access to the very tools that many marginalized individuals rely on for their safety. Without access to these firearms, many BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals would be left defenseless, with fewer options to protect themselves from rising violence and hate.

The need for self-defense is undeniable for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals who face escalating violence simply because of who they are. Protecting themselves is not a matter of choice—it is a matter of survival. I urge you to carefully consider the implications of any assault weapons ban or other gun control measures, as they could disproportionately affect those who need access to firearms for their own protection.

Thank you for your time and consideration on this important issue. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on how we can work together to ensure the safety and security of all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, or sexual orientation.

Sincerely,

[Sender's Name]

[Sender's Address]

[Sender's Contact Information]

SAMPLE: 3 of 3 (Under 200 Words)

Subject: The Need for Self-Defense Among BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Communities

Subject: Concerns About Self-Defense Rights and Law Enforcement Impact

Dear [Official's Name],

I am writing to express my concern about the safety of marginalized communities, particularly BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals, who face a higher risk of violence and hate crimes. Their right to self-defense is critical, yet proposed firearm restrictions, including an assault weapons ban, could put them at greater risk. Many individuals rely on firearms as an equalizer for protection. Limiting access to certain weapons could leave them defenseless against threats.

Additionally, such restrictions could increase negative interactions with law enforcement. Historically, BIPOC individuals have faced disproportionate policing and criminalization. Tighter gun laws may lead to increased profiling and enforcement in marginalized communities, further endangering those simply trying to exercise their right to self-defense.

Given the rising violence and systemic challenges, I urge you to consider how these policies could leave vulnerable communities unprotected and at higher risk of negative law enforcement encounters.

Thank you for your time. I look forward to your response and hope we can work together to ensure the safety and rights of all individuals.

Sincerely,

(senders name)

(address and contact information)

January 2025 Political Action Update

Second Amendment Supporters,

As many of you already know Governor McKee has submitted, as part of his budget, a ban on nearly all semiautomatic firearms. Whether or not it remains in the budget is irrelevant. The majority of legislators in the General Assembly are ready and willing to pass the "assault weapons ban" regardless of how it happens, and for the first time has the backing of both the Senate President and House Speaker. They could care less about the constitutionality of banning almost all firearms...yes that is what it is. Nor do they care what the United States Supreme Court has recently ruled, or will be ruling in the near future.

The 2A organizations in RI are having an open meeting this coming Thursday at 6:30pm. (Jan 23rd) It is open to all gun owners who are willing to do something to stop this legislation. Full details below.

Manville Sportsman Club

250 High St

Manville, RI 02838

6:30 pm

Best,

Glenn Valentine

December 2024 Political Action Report (Ed McCarthy)

Political Action Committee: There's a good chance I'll need several joint surgeries in 2025 that will affect my ability to do the political action committee so I'm seeking a replacement to take over as committee chair in January. If you want to learn more, please email or call me and I can tell you what's involved with the job. If you're still interested, we'll contact the next club president and ask him or her to appoint you.

Federal

We should see fewer anti-2A proposals under a Trump administration than under a Harris administration.

Wall Street Journal Dec. 9 article: This month the Supreme Court Justices are expected to consider whether to take Snope v. Brown, an appeal challenging a Maryland law that bans the sale and possession of “assault weapons.” That includes the AR-15 style.

Rhode Island

Gov. McKee stated he would include an assault weapon ban in his budget proposal. That would remove that legislation from the House and Senate Judiciary committees but it would not prevent those committees from introducing other anti-2A legislation. Here’s what I learned online about the state’s budget process:

1. The Governor must submit a budget to the General Assembly by the third Thursday in January, unless delayed by act of the General Assembly.
2. The budget is then considered by the General Assembly, which may increase, decrease, alter, or strike out any item.
3. The House and Senate Finance Committees review the budget proposal and hold hearings.
4. The House typically votes on the budget first, followed by the Senate.
5. If approved by both chambers, the budget bill is sent to the Governor for signature.
6. The Governor has 10 days to review the budget and can approve it, veto it entirely, veto or reduce specific line items, or submit changes as amendments.
7. The General Assembly can override any veto by a three-fifths majority vote.
8. If the General Assembly fails to pass the annual appropriation bill, amounts equal to those appropriated in the prior fiscal year are automatically available for expenditure.

· This process typically concludes before the start of the new fiscal year on July 1.

If the assault weapon ban follows this procedure, we’ll need to lobby the Finance committees plus the Judiciary committees on any bills they consider. I’ll provide links with contact information for the Finance and Judiciary committees’ members and House and Senate reps should the Finance committee pass a ban for the General Assembly’s consideration.

Massachusetts

Lawsuits to challenge sections of new firearms law still ongoing

From the Mass. Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (Nov. 14 memo w/ FAQs)

Q. Will I need to register all my firearms?

A. Yes. However, you will not be required to register your firearms into the new registration system until 10/2/2026. The Commonwealth is working on building the new registration system and will provide additional information about how to register firearms at a later date.

My Email Correspondence with Massachusetts Firearms Record Bureau

Ed McCarthy <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>

Wed, Oct 16, 10:24 AM

to FRB

I live in Rhode Island and have a Mass. non-resident Class A Large Capacity Temporary License to carry firearms that is valid through 10/08/25. Recently I’ve been hearing that non-residents with temporary licenses like mine are now prohibited from bringing concealed carry handguns into the state. My reaction was that if this class of license was now invalid, your agency would have communicated that information and I haven’t seen anything. I realize you’re not in a position to offer legal guidance by email, but can you please tell me if this information is correct? I don’t want to break the law and I appreciate any guidance you can provide. Thanks,

Ed McCarthy

FRB (CHS) <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>

Wed, Oct 16, 10:48 AM

to me

Hello,

Nothing has changed for non-resident license holders. We are still issuing non-resident permits.

Thanks,

(no name on response)

October 10 GOAL Presentation Revised Massachusetts Firearms Laws

Sept. 27, 2024--On Thursday, October 10, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Jon Green, director of education & training for the Gun Owners' Action League (goal.org), will present an in-person program at the club on the new Massachusetts firearm laws as enacted in Chapter 135 from the legislation H. 4885. The new laws affect all firearms owners who either live in, shoot in, or carry concealed in Massachusetts, and GOAL is a leading source on the law's provisions and impact. There is no charge for the program, but GOAL will be asking participants to consider making a donation or joining GOAL to help fund the legal fees for the lawsuits they're filing against the legislation. Non-members may attend. The club bar will be open for refreshments.

Please email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you plan to attend so we can make sure we have sufficient seating.

The Gun Owners Action League of Mass. website has updated its analysis of the legislation's impact.Go to GOAL.org/gunban and click on "GOAL's Initial Summary of H.4885 By Subject Matter" for details.

Ed McCarthy/ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Political Action Update (June 11, 2024)

Rhode Island

The RI state legislature is winding down its session. Here’s the status of several gun-related bills:

Safe Storage Act (legiscan.com/RI/text/H7373/2024):

Status: Passed both houses; Gov. McKee signed the bill into law on June 13.

Summary: Requires safe storage of firearms/provides civil and criminal penalties for violations/adds rifles and shotguns to the types of firearms requiring a trigger lock to be included with purchase/requires firearms dealers post signs regarding safe storage.

Assault Weapon Ban (legiscan.com/RI/text/H7217/2024)

Expanded Blue Card Test for All Firearms (legiscan.com/RI/text/H7268/2024)

One Firearm per Month Purchase Limit (legiscan.com/RI/text/H7269/2024)

Status: All three bills held in committee for further study so they shouldn’t show up again in this legislative session but they're likely candidates for the next session.

Connecticut

According to the NRA’s ILA staff, the 2024 legislative session, which ended in May, saw less anti-gun activity versus 2023.

Massachusetts

The Massachusetts legislature is working on a significant overhaul of the state's firearms regulations with the H. 4139 bill, an "Act Modernizing Firearms Laws." The bill runs over 100 pages and covers multiple aspects of gun ownership, transport, firearms licenses, and penalties. The Gun Owners Action League of Massachusetts has more details and analysis on the bill (www.goal.org/gunban). If you live, shoot, or concealed carry as a nonresident in Massachusetts, you'll want to track this legislation. Also, Rhode Island legislatures frequently copy anti-gun legislation from Connecticut and Massachusetts, so this bill could be a preview for upcoming Rhode Island legislation.

Ed M.

RI Safe Storage Bill Moves to House for Vote

On Thursday May 23, the RI House Judiciary Committee approved the House and Senate versions of the proposed “safe storage law” bills by a 9 to 5 vote. According to the legislative status reports, the bills have been placed on the House calendar for Tuesday, May 28.

Here are the links to the bills:

House Bill No. 7373: http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/BillText/BillText24/HouseText24/H7373A.pdf

Senate Bill No. 2202 as amended:

http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/BillText/BillText24/SenateText24/S2202A.pdf

If you plan to contact your House representative to express your opinion on the bills, time is running out to contact him or her.

If you’re unsure who your representative is, this site will let you identify him or her:

https://vote.sos.ri.gov/Home/PollingPlaces?ActiveFlag=3

Finally, here’s a web page with all the House members’ contact info:

https://www.rilegislature.gov/representatives/default.aspx

EdM

Safe Storage Legislation Update from ProJo (5/23/24)

Here are some highlights from a Katherine Gregg ProJo article updated 5/22.

Article Title: The most significant gun control measure this session is going up for a vote. Will it pass?

Link: https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/politics/2024/05/21/ris-safe-storage-gun-control-bill-is-heading-for-a-vote-what-to-know/73787217007/

Under current Rhode Island law, a gun owner is criminally liable only if a child – someone under 16 years old – gets access to and discharges a gun, causing injury to himself or herself or others.

The proposed new law requires the "safe storage" of a firearm in a locked container unless it is equipped with a "tamper-resistant mechanical lock" or device that makes the firearm "inoperable by any person other than the owner."

The storage requirement would not apply to a firearm that is "being carried ... or can be readily carried by a lawfully authorized user."

Fines for violations would range from:

$250 for a first offense.
Fines of up to $500 and imprisonment for up to six months for repeat offenses.
The potential penalty doubles for anyone "who knows or reasonably should know'' that someone under age 18 or a person prohibited by law from buying or possessing a gun was likely to gain access.
Punishment increases up to $5,000 and/or five years in prison if the gun is used to commit a crime or cause injury.

Ms. Gregg notes that “both the House and Senate bills would create exceptions for certain hypothetical cases where, for example, someone barred from having a gun somehow "obtains or obtains and discharges the firearm in a lawful act of self-defense or defense of another person."

Here is the link to contact info page for House Judiciary members:

Link: https://www.rilegislature.gov/Pages/CommitteeMembers.aspx?ComChoiceR=HJUD&CommitteeName=Judiciary

Posted by EdM 5/23/24

I'm stepping in as the club's political action chair and while I'll need some time to get up to speed, we have some pending Rhode Island legislative activity that could affect our rights. Below I've provided information from the NRA and several other sources that will help you contact your local representatives to voice your opinions.

Ed McCarthy

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

From the NRA-ILA:

Rhode Island: House Expected To Vote on Mandatory Storage Bill This Week

TUESDAY, MAY 21, 2024
Anti-gun politicians in the Rhode Island House are planning to pass yet another infringement on your constitutional rights this week. On Thursday, the House Judiciary Committee will meet and vote on H.7373.

H.7373 forces gun owners to store their firearms under lock and key or face the consequences. This "one size fits all" approach puts law-abiding citizens at a disadvantage when seconds matter, tipping the scales in favor of home invaders in self-defense situations.

Earlier this Spring, hundreds of Rhode Island gun owners showed up to testify against this bill and many others. This is the last chance to make your voice heard to encourage your elected officials to oppose this dangerous legislation. H.7373 has already passed the Senate and now is dangerously close to landing on the Governor's desk.
Contact your Representative using the Take Action button [Link to button: Click here] and respectfully request a “no” vote on H.7373. Additionally, make sure you, your friends, fellow club members, family, and co-workers are all registered to vote and turn out in November to retire those who have continued to trample on your rights.

END

Local Resources

The Rhode Island 2nd Amendment Coalition site's home page [Link: Home page] provides links to all the pending legislation plus the Coalition's color-coded recommendation on each bill.

House Judiciary Committee May 23, 2024 Agenda: https://www.rilegislature.gov/Special/comdoc/House%20Judiciary%202024/05-23-2024---Agenda%20Revised%20(1)---House%20Judiciary.pdf

*Includes links to individual bills

Contact info for RI State senators: https://www.rilegislature.gov/senators/default.aspx

Contact info for RI State representatives: http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/Email/RepEmailListDistrict.asp

Contact info for House Judiciary members: http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/ComMembers/ComMemr.asp?ComChoiceR=HJUD

Message from the Rhode Island 2nd Amendment Coalition!!

Donate Now

About Us

Greeting 2nd Amendment Supporters, Two Days of Hearings !!!!!!!!

On Tuesday March 12th 4:00pm Senate Gun Bills in Judiciary

On Wednesday March 13th House Judiciary at the Rise of House (4:30pm)

Click links below

House Bills: https://status.rilegislature.gov/documents/agenda-20063.aspx

Senate Bills: https://status.rilegislature.gov/documents/agenda-20107.aspx

We need patriots there to sign up and oppose the bad Gun Bills. If you do not want to testify you can simply sign up in support of our bills and in opposition to the bad anti-gun bills.

Please contact your Senators and Representatives, e-mail them and writing letters! They need to know we are here and we will not allow them to restrict our rights!

Please make sure all of your friends and family who own firearms are getting on the RI Second Amendment list!!!!

Social media, Facebook and other mediums are restricting our communications efforts. Get on

the RIFOL list, the Federated Sportsman's list and the Rhode Island Revolver and Rifle list!!!!!

This is critical to make sure you are getting Alerts.

View All Our Issues

Let your voice be heard! Stop being a Spectator in Life!! Remember to "Get Involved" these are your Second Amendment Rights at stake.

"All Tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent"

Proudly At Your Service

Michael P O'Neil & Frank R Saccoccio

Rhode Island 2nd Amendment Coalition

928 Atwood Ave,

Johnston, RI 02919

(401) 944-1600