Colorado: Semi-Auto Ban Turned Permit-to-Purchase Passes Senate

On Tuesday, February 18th, the Senate passed the amended Senate Bill 25-003, the near all-encompassing semi-automatic ban turned permit-to-purchase scheme, by a vote of 19-15 with bipartisan opposition.

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 week'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 advancing to House! It is CRITICAL to contact your Representative 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!

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.