PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Gun rights advocates filled the Rhode Island State House ready for a legislative fight Wednesday afternoon. Lawmakers are considering an assault weapons ban that some gun owners say is overly broad and unconstitutional. “I believe that we have a right to defend ourse lves,” Burrillville resident Beth Noons said. Rhode Island democrats have been trying for years to get an assault weapons ban across the finish line. Governor Dan McKee made a controversial decision this year to initially include a ban in his proposed budget. “I believe that the state overall supports gun safety legislation,” McKee said. Although, as an assault weapons bill was heard by the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, advocates came out in droves to fight for their second amendment rights. Andre Mendes, co-owner of Big Bear Hunting and Fishing in Glocester, said he wasn’t surprised to see such a large crowd. “These are people that love the country, they love America,” Mendes said. “They like hanging out and shooting guns, unfortunately this bill is going to restrict that significantly.” The bill would define various assault weapons, and restrict the manufacturing, sale, purchase, and possession of them. “I think, collectively, the loss of revenue is going to be over 300 million dollars,” Mendes said. McKee and other state democrats say the bill will make for a safer Rhode Island, but advocates believe that’s simply not the case. “Criminals will always find a way, if it’s not a gun it’ll be another weapon,” Noons said. “Anybody with ill in their heart will find a way to do harm.” After hours of review Wednesday, the assault weapons ban was kept in committee for further discussion. Categories: News, Politics, Providence, Rhode Island ...read more read less