Colorado Advances Bill to Restrict Sale of High-Capacity Firearms

Colorado Advances Bill to Restrict Sale of High-Capacity Firearms

Colorado is on the brink of a significant shift in its gun laws as the state Senate has approved legislation aimed at banning the sale of AR-15s, AK-47s, and shotguns that utilize high-capacity magazines. This legislative move comes in response to ongoing debates surrounding gun control and public safety within the state.

Details of the Proposed Legislation

The newly proposed bill will not affect the possession of these firearms currently held by residents. Instead, it seeks to restrict the manufacture, sale, and purchase of weapons that carry more than 15 rounds. In addition to these restrictions, the legislation will also ban the sale and purchase of certain aftermarket modifications that could enhance a firearm’s firing capacity.

Progress of the Bill in the Legislature

The Senate’s approval of the bill occurred on Tuesday. It is now set to move to the House of Representatives, where the Democratic majority is expected to support its passage. Colorado Governor Jared Polis, who is not opposed to the sweeping changes, has suggested that the bill may benefit from a modification intended to address specific concerns raised during its initial review.

Background Check and Training Requirements

The proposed amendments include rigorous requirements for buyers intending to purchase firearms impacted by this legislation. Those interested in acquiring these weapons would need to complete a background check administered by local law enforcement, akin to the procedures followed for obtaining concealed carry permits. Furthermore, prospective buyers would be required to finish a state-run hunting safety course along with an additional four-hour firearm safety course.

For those who have never held a hunter’s license, the training extends to a comprehensive in-person course lasting 12 hours over two days. This ensures that all buyers are adequately prepared to handle these firearms responsibly.

Scoring and Compliance

As part of the training, buyers must achieve a score of at least 90% on a final exam to secure the exemption. This certification will need to be renewed every five years to ensure ongoing compliance with the law.

Opposition and Concerns Among Lawmakers

Despite the modifications aimed at garnering broader support, all Republicans in the Senate, alongside three Democrats, opposed the bill during the vote on Tuesday. One vocal opponent of the legislation, Paul Lundeen, the leading Republican in the Colorado state Senate, expressed his concerns regarding the implications for Second Amendment rights. He highlighted that the right to bear arms is inherent and protected by the U.S. Constitution.

Additionally, lawmakers raised alarms about the possibility of a registry being created for individuals looking to purchase the firearms restricted under this new law. Such concerns reflect broader anxieties about privacy and government oversight in gun ownership.

Legal Implications of Violating the New Law

The proposed legislation outlines clear legal consequences for violations. Purchasing AR-15s and similar firearms capable of holding more than 15 rounds could result in a class 2 misdemeanor. Repeat offenses in this regard may elevate the crime to a class 6 felony, significantly amplifying the stakes for gun owners.

Continued Available Options for Firearms

While the new bill imposes strict regulations on certain types of firearms, it does still allow for the sale of AR-15s and other semiautomatic rifles that accommodate magazines of fewer than 15 rounds. However, many manufacturers produce AR-15s with standard magazines that exceed this limit, complicating compliance with the forthcoming legislation.

Reactions from Advocacy Groups

Gun rights advocates have voiced strong opposition to the legislative measures. John Commerford, Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action, criticized the bill as an unwarranted attack on law-abiding citizens. He described it as more focused on political perception than on actual public safety, emphasizing that the NRA would persevere in fighting what it deems unconstitutional legislation.

The Path Ahead for Colorado’s Gun Laws

As Colorado prepares for a potentially transformative phase in its gun legislation, debates surrounding this bill will likely continue to spark discussions about individual rights, public safety, and the role of government in regulating firearms. Key stakeholders, including lawmakers, advocacy groups, and the public, will play crucial roles in shaping the future of gun ownership in the state. The outcome of this bill has the potential to significantly influence the dynamics of gun culture and regulations in Colorado for years to come.