Colorado records surge in background checks ahead of new gun law

In July, Colorado conducted nearly 60,000 firearm background checks, about three times the number recorded a year earlier, according to the Colorado Bureau of Investigations. The spike occurred as the state prepared for the August 1 implementation of Senate Bill 25‑003, a law that adds new requirements for purchasing certain semiautomatic firearms with detachable magazines.

Under SB 25‑003, buyers must complete a state‑approved safety course and pass a test, and sheriffs are given authority to block sales to prohibited persons. The measure does not affect semiautomatic weapons already owned in the state. Supporters, including gun‑safety advocate Eileen McCarron of Colorado Ceasefire, say the law aims to keep the most dangerous weapons out of the hands of potential mass shooters. Opponents, such as Colorado State Shooting Association executive director Huey Laugesen, call the legislation unconstitutional and have filed a lawsuit (Del Toro v. Polis) to overturn it. Confusion remains over which firearms are covered; the popular Glock pistol is not subject to the new restrictions.