Colorado Enacts Major Gun Restrictions Impacting 85% of Firearms

Colorado has enacted a new law requiring residents to obtain a permit and complete 12 hours of firearms training before acquiring certain semi-automatic rifles and shotguns with detachable magazines, impacting popular models like the AR-15 and AK-47. The law, which takes effect in August 2026, mandates a background check, vetting by a county sheriff, and a firearms safety course, with eligibility lasting five years. Critics argue the law places undue burdens on the exercise of Second Amendment rights and is likely to face legal challenges in light of recent Supreme Court rulings, such as NYSRPA vs Bruen, which emphasize historical consistency in gun regulations. Supporters claim the law will enhance public safety, while opponents contend it will ban up to 85% of rifles and amounts to an unconstitutional restriction. The law includes exceptions for military, law enforcement, and specific professional uses, but generally imposes significant new hurdles for average citizens seeking to purchase semi-automatic firearms. Legal experts and gun rights advocates predict challenges to the law, questioning its constitutionality and the precedent it sets for requiring permits before exercising constitutional freedoms.