Gun laws in Rhode Island

In practice, carry permits have been very hard to obtain from the Attorney General's Office under their strict interpretation of "proper showing of need", which has only become stricter under the current Neronha administration who will only issue to those who can prove a specific threat to the applicant's life, have a work related purpose (security guard) or are a former police officer.

[6][7] In most cases, the AG will not issue a permit unless the demonstrated need is extremely convincing (work purposes, threat to one's life, etc.).

Upon denial, applicants are offered the opportunity to appeal, requiring an interview with Bureau of Criminal Investigation staff.

In April 2015, the Rhode Island Supreme Court ruled that local police chiefs must issue licenses to carry to qualified applicants (e.g., those who pass a background check and complete the required firearms skill training).

Rhode Island has a moderately strong castle law,[9] limited to the inside of a dwelling, with no duty to retreat.

A judge may issue a temporary gun-removal order, but a hearing is required within 14 days to determine if a one-year ban on buying or possessing a firearms is warranted.