'Ghost Gun' Ban Now Rhode Island Law

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo signed a bill into law Tuesday banning untraceable "ghost guns" in the state. A national gun safety organization praised the law, calling it s step forward for the state.

"Ghost guns" lack serial numbers, and are often undetectable by metal detectors because they are 3D printed.

"Today marks a meaningful step forward in our fight to end gun violence in Rhode Island," Raimondo said. "We know that untraceable guns put our community at risk. I’m proud to sign this legislation to help ensure that every gun in our state is registered, traceable, and in the hands of someone who is fit to carry the responsibility of owning a firearm."

Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, the co-founder of the Giffords gun violence prevention organization, praised the law. Earlier this year, she met with Raimondo and other state leaders in a round table to discuss solutions to gun violence in the state.

"Governor Raimondo stood up to the gun lobby and put the safety of Rhode Islanders first," Giffords said. "Ghost guns are being used more and more by people who could never pass a background check. She’s fixing that, and signing this legislation is a bold step that will better protect communities throughout Rhode Island. Giffords is proud to stand with Gov. Raimondo as she demonstrates the courage needed to end gun violence."

The new law makes it illegal to create, own, sell or buy ghost guns, which includes firearms without serial numbers and any that is made from fiberglass or plastic using a 3D printer. Penalties include up to 10 years in prison and $10,000 in fines. The law goes into effect 30 days from Tuesday.

"Ghost guns, 3-D printed guns and undetectable plastic guns can easily facilitate criminal activity because they totally bypass the safeguards that protect the public," Said Sen. Cynthia Coyne, one of the legislation's sponsors. "Our state laws should be very clear that possessing, creating or selling them is a criminal act, and we should be doing everything we can to keep these dangerous weapons from proliferating here."

Attorney General Peter Neronha, the Rhode Island State Police, the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association, the Rhode Island Coalition Against Gun Violence and Rhode Island Moms Demand Action all voiced their support for the legislation.