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Talk of Colorado Semiautomatic Firearm Ban Sparks Backlash – American Faith

A new bill targeting semiautomatic firearms will be heard in the Colorado General Assembly on Tuesday, drawing sharp criticism from conservatives and gun rights advocates. Senate Bill 3, introduced by Democrats on the first day of the legislative session, proposes prohibiting the purchase, manufacturing, distribution, or transfer of semiautomatic rifles and shotguns with detachable magazines.

Republicans labeled the measure as “one of the most extreme gun control bills in Colorado’s history,” warning it would ban the sale of popular firearms like AR-15s, AK-47s, and certain semiautomatic handguns. If passed, the law would take effect September 1, 2025. Firearms already owned by Colorado residents would not be confiscated but could not be sold or transferred under the proposed restrictions.

With Democrats controlling both legislative chambers and the governor’s office, the bill is expected to advance despite Republican opposition. Seventeen of the state’s 35 senators have signed on as sponsors, signaling strong support within the Democratic caucus.

Proponents argue the legislation is necessary to enhance public safety. Senate Democrats defended the measure, stating, “High-capacity magazines make shootings more lethal by increasing the amount of ammunition that can be fired before a shooter needs to pause to reload.”

Opponents, including pro-Second Amendment groups, are urging Coloradans to oppose the bill. Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, a firearm advocacy organization, has called the proposal an “egregious violation of our rights” and is rallying residents to attend Tuesday’s committee meeting.

Over the last five years, Colorado has enacted more than 30 gun control laws, earning a reputation as one of the most restrictive states for firearm regulations. Despite these measures, gun violence remains above the national average. Data from Everytown for Gun Safety reveals Colorado has a firearm death rate of 16.6 per 100,000 residents, compared to the national rate of 13.7.

If enacted, Senate Bill 3 would mark another significant step in Colorado’s aggressive push for stricter gun laws. Critics warn it would infringe on constitutional rights while failing to address the root causes of gun violence.

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