The Colorado House just passed three more gun-related bills after a historic vote to advance a ban on many high-powered, semi-automatic guns. These bills are now headed for debate in the Capitol. Over the weekend, votes were cast on gun dealer licensing, insurance requirements for gun owners, and taxes on sales of guns and ammunition. Only Democrats supported these bills, with varying numbers of the majority caucus opposing each one, alongside Republicans.
The state Senate also gave final approval for two other gun reform bills on Monday, dealing with concealed-carry permits and firearms storage in vehicles. Like the House votes, the Senate's votes saw Democrats supporting the bills and Republicans opposing them.
The Democrats in the Legislature have been pushing for gun control and reform measures this year to tackle gun violence. They have introduced several bills to add new restrictions and enforce existing laws better. However, Republicans and their allies are critical of these measures, arguing that they could violate the Second Amendment. They have also vowed to challenge these bills legally if they are passed into law.
The debate on these bills has been intense, with Democratic House leadership limiting initial debates to avoid Republican filibustering. The ban on "assault" weapons is among the most prominent measures under discussion.
Here's a quick rundown of the newly advanced bills:
1. Concealed-carry training: The Senate passed House Bill 1174, which would increase requirements for obtaining a concealed-carry permit. It would mandate in-person training, live-fire exercises, eight hours of coursework, and a passing test. The bill now awaits Gov. Jared Polis' approval.
2. Gun storage in vehicles: Senate Bill 1348, requiring firearms in vehicles to be stored in a locked, hard-sided container, passed the Senate. Changes made in the Senate, including increased criminal penalties for thefts of firearms, may lead to disagreements with the House version.
3. Liability insurance: House Bill 1270, requiring gun owners to hold liability insurance covering injury, death, or property damage caused by any accidental discharge, passed narrowly in the House. It now goes to the Senate.
4. Tax on guns and ammo: House Bill 1349 proposes a 9% excise tax on ammo vendors, gun dealers, and firearms manufacturers, with proceeds benefiting crime victim service grants, schools, and mental health services. The House passed it, and it now goes to the Senate.
5. Gun dealer licensure: House Bill 1353 passed in the House, requiring retail gun dealers to have a state permit in addition to their federal licenses. This measure aims to ensure better security and prevent illegal sales. The bill now moves to the Senate.
These bills are part of a broader legislative effort by Democrats to address gun violence, including allocating more funds to monitor illegal gun sales. If the proposed assault weapons ban becomes law, the licenses required under this bill could be at risk if gun dealers violate its provisions.
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