PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island house will vote Thursday on the Assault Weapons Ban Act of 2025.

The House Judiciary Committee approved the ban in a 12-6 vote, setting up for a floor vote.

Fully automatic weapons, like machine guns, are already illegal in the state.

The Assault Weapons Ban Act of 2025 would impact the purchase, sale and possession of semi-automatic shotguns, rifles and pistols that meet specific features outlined in the act.

Rhode islanders who have an assault-style weapon before July 1, 2026 will be able to legally keep them.

Owners can register their gun for a certificate of possession, but it’s no longer mandatory if the ban goes into law.

The house will vote on the bill at four this evening.

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