Republican state lawmakers in Colorado are seeking intervention from the Trump administration regarding a new state law that restricts access to certain types of semiautomatic weapons with detachable magazines. The legislation, Senate Bill 25-003, initially aimed to ban these firearms entirely but was amended by Senate Democrats to allow sales after completion of a training course. The course covers firearm deaths related to mental illness, Colorado’s red flag law, and victim awareness.
The bill, signed by Governor Jared Polis, does not impact guns currently owned by Coloradans but adds restrictions for new purchases of certain gas-powered semi-automatic guns with detachable magazines. Critics, including State Rep. Scott Bottoms and Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, argue that the law is extreme and violates Second Amendment rights. They are calling for a review of the law by the Department of Justice.
Despite opposition, the bill’s sponsors and supporters believe it is constitutional and will withstand legal challenges. State Sen. Julie Gonzales defended the law, citing previous rulings by the Colorado State Supreme Court. The DOJ has yet to comment on the request for a review.
Rocky Mountain Gun Owners is consulting with Second Amendment attorneys to determine their next steps in response to the law. The legislation is set to go into effect on August 1, 2026. The debate around Senate Bill 25-003 reflects ongoing tensions between gun control advocates and supporters of Second Amendment rights in Colorado.
