Brett Smiley’s guns & ammunition tax bill gains widespread support in the general assembly

Providence – In the month since Brett Smiley introduced his Guns and Ammunition Tax Bill to the Rhode Island General Assembly, eleven Senators and Representatives have signed on as sponsors. The list of sponsors includes Senators Goldin, Metts, DaPonte, Pichardo, Miller, and Crowley as well as Representatives Cimini, Almeida, Ajello, Williams and Handy.

Smiley commented, «It’s great to see so many influential leaders coming

together to support this common-sense solution to the crime and violence in

our state. By recognizing the great work being done by our nonprofits and

the importance of providing them with steady funding, we take a big step

towards a safer Providence and a safer Rhode Island.»

Smiley’s bill would create the first ever permanent funding stream for

nonprofits committed to fighting crime and violence by imposing a 10%

supplemental tax on all guns and ammunition sold in Rhode Island. The tax

is projected to raise $2 million each year.

Smiley will be attending a rally with the Religious Coalition for a

Violence-Free RI and the RI Coalition Against Gun Violence at the State

House this afternoon.

Brett Smiley is running in the September 2014 Democratic primary for Mayor

of Providence.