Government proposes House Bill 1171: Imposing Felony Charges for Motor Vehicle Theft

The House approved House Bill 1171 on Thursday, which aims to include felony charges related to motor vehicle theft as offenses that would bar suspects from owning guns. Sponsored by Reps. Shannon Bird and Andrew Boesenecker, the bill was split between party caucuses. The legislation focuses on first-degree motor vehicle theft and those with at least three convictions. Supporters believe the bill will deter repeat offenses and improve public safety in response to violent motor vehicle thefts. Some members, including Rep. Matt Soper, expressed concerns about removing Second Amendment rights for non-violent offenders. Despite this, the bill received support from various lawmakers, including Reps. Ryan Armagost and Jarvis Caldwell, who introduced an amendment to allow offenders to petition for gun rights restoration after completing sentences. The bill highlighted strong divisions within both caucuses and faced opposition from organizations like the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar and Rocky Mountain Gun Owners while receiving support from Rocky Mountain Ceasefire and law enforcement associations. The legislation will now face a final vote in the House, as the debate over gun rights and public safety continues to be a contentious issue in the legislative process.

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