During a recent session of Colorado’s Democratic-controlled Legislature, a bill prohibiting the sale and transfer of semi-automatic guns was surprisingly tabled. This decision came as a succession of gun control laws were pushed through, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting.
The state, known for its complicated connection with firearms and a history of deadly mass shootings, has been negotiating a difficult route towards stronger gun legislation. While nine other Democratic-controlled states have successfully implemented similar prohibitions, Colorado’s efforts have encountered substantial challenges.
A similar plan was quickly rejected last year, so the current passage in the Colorado House is a significant step forward. However, some Senate Democrats expressed worries about the ban’s effectiveness and extent, namely its impact on Second Amendment rights.
Colorado’s shift towards a more progressive approach to gun regulation has been seen in recent years. Last year, several successful gun control measures were implemented, including raising the guns purchase age to 21. This year, the legislature is considering a number of new proposals, including a ballot proposition that would tax gun and ammunition purchases.
Despite these developments, the proposed semi-automatic gun prohibition received substantial resistance, leading its withdrawal from consideration. Senator Julie Gonzales, one of the bill’s supporters, acknowledged the hurdles but also noted the state’s expanding gun control debate.
The bill’s defeat was due to opposition from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, demonstrating the complicated dynamics at work. Senator Tom Sullivan, who lost his son in the 2012 Aurora theatre shooting, questioned the ban’s effectiveness, claiming that it would do little to address the underlying causes of gun violence.
While the initiative has been placed on hold for the time being, backers are hopeful that it will be reviewed in the future. Meanwhile, Colorado is looking into additional ways to combat gun violence, with three laws on their way to the governor’s desk that aim to improve safety training for concealed carry permits and increase oversight of firearm dealers.