Colorado: Semi-Auto Ban Mutates into Permit-to-Purchase Scheme After Midnight

Like something out of the Gremlins movies, Senate Bill 25-003 was amended well past midnight to transform from a near all-encompassing semi-automatic ban into a permit-to-purchase scheme reminiscent of Illinois' FOID cards.

Senate Bill 25-003 bans so-called "specified semiautomatic firearms," which are defined in the bill as "...a semiautomatic rifle or semiautomatic shotgun with a detachable magazine or a gas-operated semiautomatic handgun with a detachable magazine." Semi-automatic firearms with detachable magazines have existed for well over a century, and these platforms certainly fit the definition of "in common use" set forth by the District of Columbia V. Heller decision.

Last night's amendment grants an exemption for the purchase of banned firearm platforms through a "permit-to-purchase" scheme. Coloradans who complete the Hunter's Safety Course or possess a concealed carry permit would be required to take 4 hours of firearms education, and individuals who possess neither would require 12 hours of education to apply for the purchase permit. 

Senate Bill 25-003 is set for its final vote in the Senate NEXT WEEK! It is CRITICAL to contact your Senator NOW by using the TAKE ACTION button below and to contact Governor Polis' office at (303) 866-2471 or by email at [email protected]. Use your voice to oppose this unconstitutional bill and prevent it from advancing any further!

Additionally, House Bill 25-1133 was passed out of the House Business Affairs Committee on Thursday, February 13th. HB 25-1133 places age restrictions on the purchase of ammunition for both in-person transactions and delivery orders.

NRA members and fellow Second Amendment advocates MUST stay engaged and continue contacting your legislators to oppose these egregious bills.

Please stay tuned to the NRA-ILA website and your inbox for updates as this legislative session progresses.