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VICTORY FOR GUN SAFETY: Governor Daniel McKee Signs Lifesaving Secure Storage Legislation into Law; Moms Demand Action, Students Demand Action Respond 

6.13.2024

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Today, The Rhode Island chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots network, issued the following statements applauding Governor Daniel McKee for signing SB 2202/HB 7373, legislation that will require the secure storage of firearms, into law. This new law expands and strengthens the previous statewide firearm storage law by requiring all gun owners to securely store their guns when not in use, either in a locked container or with a safety device that prevents unauthorized access. Today’s victory comes after years of advocacy from gun safety advocates. 

“We’ve spent years advocating for a strong secure storage law because we know that keeping firearms away from unauthorized users and children is one of the best tools we have to keep our loved ones safe. We’re grateful to our lawmakers and Governor McKee for working alongside gun safety advocates to get this life-saving bill across the finish line,” said Patti Alley, a volunteer with the Rhode Island chapter of Moms Demand Action. “This new law requires gun dealers and school districts across the Ocean State to provide information about secure storage to firearm owners – information that can be the difference between life and death. Now that we have a secure storage law on the books, we know that there’s more we can accomplish and we’ll be back to see it happen.” 

“We’ve seen the lifesaving impact that the secure storage of firearms can have in states across the country, and we can’t wait to see its impact here in Rhode Island,” said Caleb Schultz, a volunteer leader with the Brown University Students Demand Action chapter. “Unintentional shootings are far too common across the country, but they can be prevented through the secure storage of firearms. Thanks to Governor McKee and our gun-sense lawmakers, families across Rhode Island now have access to this critical tool to help keep guns out of the hands of children, and our communities will be safer for it.” 

Rhode Island lawmakers adjourned for this legislative session after passing SB 2202/HB 7373, which will strengthen and expand Rhode Island’s current firearm storage law by requiring all gun owners to securely store their guns when not in use, either in a locked container or with a safety device that prevents unauthorized access. In addition, it also requires gun dealers to both post signs and give information to people who purchase guns about secure storage, suicide prevention, and Rhode Island’s gun safety laws and it requires school districts to give similar information to students and their families. 

In an average year, 48 people die by guns in Rhode Island and another 119 are wounded by guns. 60 percent of gun deaths are by firearm suicide in Rhode Island. Gun violence costs Rhode Island $752.1 million each year, of which $15.8 million is paid by taxpayers. More information about gun violence in Rhode Island is available here