OK fellow Rhodies, here is the low-down on the story.
I JUST had a long conversation with Spencer and here is Crosman's official stand. RI statute §11-47-2 (3) states "Firearm" shall include any machine gun, pistol, rifle, air rifle, air pistol, "blank gun," "BB gun," so-called, or other instrument from which steel or metal projectiles are propelled, or which may readily be converted to expel a projectile, except recurve, compound, or longbows and except such instruments propelling such projectiles which instruments are designed or normally used for a primary purpose other than as a weapon. The frame or receiver of any such weapon shall be construed as a firearm under the provisions of this section."
Therefore, Crosman as a manufacturer and retail dealer of "firearms" is required to obtain a license by this law : "§ 11-47-38. Dealers to be licensed. No retail dealer shall sell or otherwise transfer, or expose for sale or transfer, or have in his or her possession with intent to sell or otherwise transfer, any pistol, revolver, or other firearm without being licensed as provided in this chapter."
SO, out of an abundance of caution in this litigious society, and not wishing to purchase a license to manufacture firearms in RI, they simply do not sell to RI residents. not worthy but I can see their point of view. Spencer was very pleasant to talk to, even siding with me in that he can sympathize with my frustration, encouraging me to get this (likely purposefully) very poorly written legislation clarified or ratified by the state since the ATFE is VERY specific as to what constitutes a firearm.
Due to there being no legal precedence here, we need to take a stand and rectify this law. Not sure if we need to talk to the RI second amendment foundation or what but it needs to be fixed. By law this could also be construed as a number of firearm related violations that you may not be aware of, that could result in your loss of freedom or at least an expensive legal defense. Just saying....
God bless our elected representatives for keeping us safe......