House committee passes 'red flag' policy, bump stock ban

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Rhode Island House Judiciary Committee voted on Tuesday to pass bills that would establish a "red flag" policy and ban bump stocks in the state.

The committee voted to send the two bills to the full House for a vote, which Democratic House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello's office said would take place on Thursday.

Mattiello, who is backed by the National Rifle Association, has supported both measures and was a co-sponsor of the red flag policy.

Democratic Senate President Dominick Ruggerio and Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo also have voiced support for the proposals.

Second Amendment advocates held a rally at the Statehouse on Tuesday against the bills.

Mary Kathryn Kent said she organized the "Rally For Your Rights Convoy" on behalf of the Rhode Island Second Amendment Coalition.

Kent said the group was made up of predominantly high school students who wanted to show their support for the Second Amendment.

"These are just the baby bills that are going to show that they're taking further steps to infringe on our Second Amendment rights," Kent said.

The truck convoy gathered in Johnston and drove to the Statehouse.

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