Legislation’s Focus: Protect Coloradans in Sensitive Spaces, to Apply to Key Locations Consistent with SCOTUS Rulings
Yesterday, the Colorado House Judiciary Committee passed gun violence prevention legislation sponsored by Representatives Kyle Brown and Mandy Lindsay that would protect communities from gun violence and create safer public spaces by prohibiting the carrying of firearms in certain locations. SB24-131 passed by a vote of 8-3.
The floor of the House of Representatives at the Colorado State Capitol. Courtesy image
“Too many Coloradans have been impacted by gun violence, and this bill would keep these dangerous weapons out of certain sensitive spaces,” said Rep. Kyle Brown (D-Louisville). “From preschools to polling places to the Colorado Capitol, there are places where guns pose a serious threat to Coloradans’ safety and can be used to intimidate people from their constitutional rights to free speech and to vote. Coloradans deserve to feel safe, and I am proud to sponsor this commonsense gun violence prevention bill.”
SB24-131 would restrict the presence of firearms in certain locations where children and families may be present. The bill would prohibit carrying a firearm – openly or concealed – in the following locations and their parking areas: government buildings where legislative meetings and offices are located; courthouses; preschools, K-12 schools, and colleges; and polling locations. The bill includes exemptions for peace officers, members of the U.S. Armed Forces performing official duties, working student resource officers, and more.
“Colorado Democrats are dedicated to addressing gun violence in our communities, which is why we’re bringing this bill to keep vulnerable Coloradans safe,” said Rep. Mandy Lindsay (D-Aurora). “Our legislation follows the guidance from U.S. Supreme Court rulings to prohibit guns from certain sensitive spaces, like government buildings and polling centers. This gun violence prevention policy will save lives and make Coloradans feel more confident that they will not be endangered or intimidated by firearms in specific places.”
Many states protect sensitive places from gun violence. Arizona, Florida, Texas, Georgia, and Louisiana prohibit open and concealed carry at voting locations. The locations protected under this bill have been deemed sensitive spaces in recent rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court, which means that the House committee believes it has a good chance of protecting its passage.
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