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VICTORY FOR GUN SAFETY: Governor McKee Signs Into Law Comprehensive Package of Gun Safety Bills, Following Advocacy From Moms Demand Action

June 21, 2022

Volunteers Have Pushed More Than a Thousand Calls and Emails to Lawmakers to Advocate for Gun Safety Legislation 

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island chapter of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots networks, released the following statement applauding Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee for signing three important gun safety bills that would prohibit high capacity magazines, prohibit the open carry of rifles and shotguns in public, and raise the minimum age to purchase rifles and shotguns from 18 to 21. Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action and volunteers with the Rhode Island chapter of Moms Demand Action were in attendance for the bill signing ceremony. Volunteers and gun safety advocates have advocated at the statehouse and sent thousands of calls and emails to elected officials in support of the bills. 

“Our country is facing a gun violence crisis and now is the time for bold action to save lives,” said Jennifer Boylan, volunteer with the Rhode Island chapter of Moms Demand Action. “The bills the Governor has signed today are vital public safety measures, ensuring high-capacity magazines and armed intimidation don’t threaten our communities, and that guns stay out of the hands of young people. We thank Governor McKee, Speaker Shekarchi, Senate President Ruggerio, Attorney General Neronha, Chairs Coyne and Craven, Leader McCaffrey, Whip Goodwin, Reps. Caldwell, Felix and Tanzi, and all the rest of our gun safety champions for their leadership and commitment to fighting gun violence and protecting Rhode Island.”

“Following the horrific mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde, in addition to the countless communities torn apart by gun violence, Rhode Island lawmakers have taken decisive action that will save lives,” said Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action. “Our grassroots army of volunteers have fought for years to help make this progress possible. We’re so grateful for the leadership of all the gun sense champions in the Rhode Island legislature for passing these life-saving laws.”

In an average year in Rhode Island, 46 people die by guns, and 135 people are wounded. Gun violence costs Rhode Island $299.3 million each year, of which $14.6 million is paid by taxpayers. More information about gun violence in Rhode Island is available here.

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