Rhode Island’s Assault Weapons Ban: A Cautious Victory Amid Constitutional Threats

Rhode Island has finally enacted a partial assault weapons ban after more than ten years of legislative struggle. While Democratic lawmakers and advocates hail this as a breakthrough, the law’s narrow focus on banning the sale, manufacture, and distribution—but not ownership—of certain high-powered firearms reveals the limitations imposed by ongoing constitutional uncertainties. This legislation, set to take effect in 2026, attempts to chart a more legally defensible path amid mounting opposition from Second Amendment defenders and signals from the U.S. Supreme Court. Notably, Justice Brett Kavanaugh has expressed skepticism toward bans on popular rifles like the AR-15, suggesting such laws...