Colorado readies for Aug. 1 implementation of semiautomatic firearms law
Applicants must complete background checks, training and an in-person exam, and a $52 state fee applies before purchase.
- Beginning August 1, 2026, Coloradans must navigate a state-controlled approval system to purchase certain semiautomatic firearms under SB25-003, requiring an eligibility card and a firearms safety course.
- Democratic Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed the legislation in April 2025, establishing training and permit requirements for modern semiautomatic firearms, including AR-15 and AK-47 rifles.
- Because of the mandatory three-day waiting period, Tuesday, July 28, was the final practical day to begin a firearm purchase before the new restrictions took effect, as shops saw surge in demand.
- The Colorado State Shooting Association is challenging SB25-003 in federal court, arguing the law blocks lawful purchases and forces residents into an alleged unconstitutional permitting scheme.
- As the Supreme Court prepares to hear cases involving similar bans in Illinois and Connecticut, Colorado's new scheme takes effect, though recent rulings in New Jersey and Virginia have struck down comparable restrictions.
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Colorado Set to Ban Detachable Ammunition Magazines for Certain Firearms on Aug. 1
A law requiring fixed magazines that hold no more than 15 rounds for certain types of semiautomatic firearms is set to come into effect in Colorado on Aug. 1. The law also requires classroom training, background checks, and approval from law enforcement for an individual to receive a permit to purchase one of the affected firearms. The legislation, which was signed into law by Gov. Jared Polis on April 10, 2025, was challenged in court the foll…
‘We are jam-packed’: Semiautomatic firearms selling like hotcakes before state regulation hits
Gov. Jared Polis (Official portrait) Modern semiautomatic firearms are flying off the shelves in Colorado in the days before a new “permit to purchase” scheme goes into effect, according to a local media outlet. In April 2025, Democratic Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed legislation initially introduced as an outright ban on so-called “assault weapons” that...
Independent Journal Review
Semiautomatic Firearms Selling Like Hotcakes As Gun Owners Try To Beat Clock On Colorado Licensing Scheme
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Aspen Times
Colorado readies for Aug. 1 implementation of semiautomatic firearms law
Starting Aug. 1, Coloradans will face new requirements when purchasing certain semiautomatic firearms. The new law was created by legislators last year and established new training and permit requirements for anyone purchasing certain semiautomatic firearms, including AK- and AR-style rifles. Under the new law, individuals interested in buying a specified semiautomatic firearm must first complete an online application, which will be sent to th…
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