💨 Abstract

A federal judge has upheld Rhode Island’s gun permit system, which requires residents to demonstrate a "need" for open-carry permits. District Judge William Smith granted the state's motion to dismiss a lawsuit from gun owners, stating that unrestricted permits are a privilege, not a constitutional right. The plaintiffs, led by Michael O’Neil, plan to appeal, arguing the decision contradicts a 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling on gun permits.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff