Is Tasers & Stun Guns Legal in Rhode Island? (2026)
No — Tasers & Stun Guns are illegal in Rhode Island as of 2026.
Law changed in 2022: A 2022 federal court ruling, McCarthy v. Wall, struck down the state's ban on stun guns. However, the state legislature has not yet passed new laws to regulate their possession and use, and several bills are pending.
Quick Answer
Tasers and stun guns are illegal for civilian possession in Rhode Island.
What the Law Says
R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-42 makes it a felony to possess or use a stun gun. The ban has been challenged in court, but remains in effect.
— R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-42
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Ownership | Illegal for civilians |
| Purchase | Illegal |
| Penalties | Criminal charges including fines and possible imprisonment. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
A 2022 federal court ruling, McCarthy v. Wall, struck down the state's ban on stun guns. However, the state legislature has not yet passed new laws to regulate their possession and use, and several bills are pending.
Enforcement Reality
A 2022 federal court ruling found the state's ban on stun guns unconstitutional, but the legislature has been slow to update the law. This has created a legal gray area, and possession may still be risky.
A common mistake is believing that stun guns are fully legal and unrestricted. Another is not understanding the state's duty to retreat before using force.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Rhode Island. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Tasers & Stun Guns are illegal in Rhode Island. Possession or use can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Rhode Island vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a taser or stun gun is fully legal in 1 states, restricted in 47, and illegal in 2. Rhode Island falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Tasers & Stun Guns:
Body Armor Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to body armor and self-defense laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to carry Tasers & Stun Guns in Rhode Island?
What are the penalties for carrying a taser or stun gun in Rhode Island?
How strictly does Rhode Island enforce its tasers & stun guns laws?
What typically triggers enforcement in Rhode Island?
Does the law on carrying a taser or stun gun change at the Rhode Island border?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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