Federal judge blocks Colorado gun law raising purchase age to 21, just before it goes into effect.
Federal Judge Halts Colorado Gun Law, Citing Second Amendment Rights
A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Colorado gun law that aimed to raise the age of purchasing a firearm to 21 years old. The law, known as SB23-169 or the “18 to 20-year-old gun ban,” was set to go into effect but was halted by U.S. District of Colorado Chief Judge Philip A. Brimmer.
“The Individual Plaintiffs have made a sufficient showing that SB23-169 infringes the Individual Plaintiffs’ Second Amendment rights.”
The Rocky Mountain Gun Owners (RMGO), a non-profit organization, filed a lawsuit against the state, arguing that the legislation violated citizens’ rights to keep and bear arms. Judge Brimmer agreed with the organization’s argument, stating that the plaintiffs had shown a likelihood of success in proving that the Second Amendment applies to 18- to 20-year-olds.
The law was signed by Colorado Governor Jared Polis and the state legislature in response to a tragic shooting incident. However, the RMGO immediately challenged its constitutionality, leading to the recent court ruling.
RMGO’s executive director, Taylor Rhodes, expressed satisfaction with the judge’s decision, stating, “We won’t stop fighting until every single unconstitutional anti-gun law is struck down.”
On the other hand, supporters of the law, including Majority House Leader Democrat Monica Duran, argue that it is necessary to protect young people and prevent gun-related incidents. They believe that the law will help reduce youth suicide rates and domestic violence cases.
However, opponents of the law, such as gun shops and shooting ranges, argue that it infringes on citizens’ rights to self-defense and will negatively impact their businesses. They emphasize the importance of education and responsible gun ownership.
As the legal battle continues, the fate of the Colorado gun law remains uncertain. Both sides are eagerly awaiting the final decision from the courts.
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