Colorado Springs, Colo. — A major proposal set to be voted on at the Colorado Capitol this Thursday has ignited intense debate across the state. Senate Bill 003 (SB-003), if passed, would ban certain semi-automatic firearms and rapid-fire accessories, a move that has drawn both fervent support and strong opposition.
The bill seeks to restrict semi-automatic rifles, shotguns with detachable magazines, and gas-operated semi-automatic handguns. Additionally, the legislation would prevent the manufacture, distribution, and transfer of these firearms within Colorado. Advocates of the bill say it is a necessary step toward reducing gun violence in the state, while critics argue that it infringes on constitutional rights and leaves citizens vulnerable.
Kathy Hagen, a volunteer with Moms Demand Action, testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the importance of quick responses in crisis situations. “Reloading a detachable magazine takes seconds, whereas reloading a fixed magazine takes significantly longer,” she explained. “This gives law enforcement and citizens crucial time to act, disarm a shooter, and potentially save lives during a mass shooting event.”
Proponents of the bill also highlight its potential to reduce the risk of gun violence. Senator Julie Gonzales of Denver, one of the bill’s sponsors, said, “Gun violence continues to have devastating effects on Colorado communities, and we must do more to protect lives.” She argued that the bill would target dangerous weapons that contribute to the rising toll of gun-related deaths.
However, opponents of SB-003 contend that it goes too far, questioning the effectiveness of banning certain firearms in curbing violence. Tyler Smith, a resident of El Paso County, spoke out against the bill, asserting that it would leave law-abiding citizens defenseless in dangerous situations. “It’s not just about banning guns,” Smith said. “It’s about taking away our ability to protect ourselves when law enforcement is minutes away and we need to act in seconds.”
El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal also expressed his opposition to the legislation, calling it unconstitutional. “As Sheriff, I will always oppose legislation that makes our communities less safe and erodes the constitutional rights of citizens,” he stated in a press release. The sheriff’s remarks reflect concerns that the bill could hinder the ability of citizens to defend themselves against threats.
While the bill does not propose confiscating firearms already in private ownership, it would limit the availability of certain weapons and accessories moving forward. If passed, the legislation would not impact guns currently possessed by Coloradans, but it would prevent future sales and transfers of the targeted firearms and accessories.
SB-003 is also expected to include a provision banning the sale of aftermarket devices that allow firearms to fire at a faster rate. Supporters argue that these devices, which turn a semi-automatic weapon into one that functions like an automatic firearm, are a danger to public safety and have contributed to deadly incidents.
As the debate intensifies, Colorado lawmakers will now have to decide whether to move forward with the proposed legislation, which has already been postponed twice before reaching the scheduled vote. The outcome could have significant implications for gun control laws in the state and for the ongoing conversation about balancing public safety with Second Amendment rights.
