A group of Colorado lawmakers want to put an end to “ghost guns” and their growing popularity. Earlier this week, the state House Judiciary Committee voted by a 7-4 majority to pass the bill, HB26-1144, with the entire House of Representatives siding with the decision. The proposed legislation would “prohibit the use of a three-dimensional printer, or similar technology, to make a firearm or firearm component.”
Ghost guns are typically made by 3D printers or similar machines without serial numbers, making them nearly impossible to trace and allowing users to avoid federal requirements to purchase a gun. While the bill targets using 3D printers to make guns, large capacity magazines and other related components, it also bans possessing and distributing instructions for making guns in this manner. However, federally licensed gun manufacturers would be exempt from these rules.
“These ghost guns are increasingly being found at crime scenes, making it harder for law enforcement to track down a suspect because the gun cannot be located,” bill sponsor Lindsey Gilchrist said in a press release.
Prior to this proposal, Colorado had passed a law in 2023 banning the possessing of ghost guns or making frames for them. While SB23-279 laid the groundwork, HB26-1144 can be seen as the next step because it is far more comprehensive by targeting ghost guns before they are even created. According to the bill, a first-time violation will be treated as a misdemeanor, while repeated violations will be converted into a felony. Looking ahead, HB26-1144 must still secure votes from both the Colorado Senate and House of Representatives before it can be submitted to the Governor to be signed into law.
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