New Restrictions on Legal Gun Purchases Raise Concerns Over Effectiveness and Constitutionality of New Colorado Gun Law
Many Coloradans are expressing discontent as the state gears up to implement a new law that will impose a three-day waiting period on firearm purchases. Starting October 1st, the state of Colorado will impose a mandatory waiting period on any prospective buyers, possibly longer, before being allowed to obtain a firearm.
The introduction of this law has sparked a wave of controversy regarding its constitutionality. Giovanni Galeano, a Colorado gun shop owner passionately argues that the law violates citizens' fundamental rights. In an interview with 9News at the Tanner Gun Show at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Galeano remarked, "I think it is unconstitutional. I believe it violates every right that we have."
He further noted that the waiting period will not only adversely affect his business but also lead to reduced sales. Galeano expressed frustration, stating, "Every difficulty that they put in front of us creates a direct impact on our business. It's not a productive thing. I don't see the purpose of it."
As the controversy gathers momentum, supporters and opponents of the new law are set to engage in a heated debate over its effectiveness and constitutionality. Proponents argue that a three day waiting period will provide a crucial "cooling-off" period to prevent impulsive acts of violence. They assert that it will allow for background checks and sufficient time to assess the eligibility and mental state of the potential gun owners. However, opponents like Galeano contend that these restrictions infringe upon individual rights and fail to address the root causes of violence, thereby penalizing law-abiding citizens unnecessarily.
It is no surprise that waiting periods for gun purchases have been proven ineffective and struck down as unconstitutional. These misguided policies do nothing to prevent crime or enhance public safety. Instead, they impose unnecessary burdens on law-abiding citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights. Experts have clearly demonstrated that criminals don't abide by waiting periods. They obtain firearms through illicit means, rendering these measures futile and counterproductive.
The flawed notion that three-day waiting periods deter criminals fails to acknowledge the reality of mental illness and gun violence. Those intent on committing acts of violence will not be dissuaded by a brief delay in acquiring a firearm. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies have consistently stated that the majority of individuals involved in crimes possess weapons obtained illegally. This highlights the real issue at hand: the need for effective enforcement of existing laws and addressing the root causes of criminal activity.
The debate surrounding the new gun purchase restrictions is sure to intensify in the weeks leading up to its implementation. While proponents argue for increased safety measures, opponents will continue to question the effectiveness and constitutionality of the three-day waiting period. As the October 1st deadline approaches, it remains to be seen how this contentious issue will be resolved and what impact it will have on the rights of gun owners and the gun industry in Colorado.
Rep. Judy Amabile (D), HD49 -- Boulder, Clear Creek, Gilpin, and Larimer Counties.
Rep. Judy Amabile was one of the sponsors of the bill and waiting periods are what drew her to run for the State House, "In 2019 when they were first running the red flag law, I went and told that story to the committee," said Amabile.
In 2018, she says her son had a mental health crisis. "One day, I saw a charge to the local gun shop," the Democrat lawmaker shared with 9News. She said they ran down to the gun store and were able to stop the sale. Her son's background check did not come back instantly, which bought them some time.
Rep. Amabile has said that she's thankful her family had the chance to intervene and hopes the new law will do the same for someone else in a situation of suicide or homicide, "I think it's going to meaningfully save lives.”
The Supreme Court has made it clear that any gun control measure must not infringe upon this fundamental right. Studies have shown that law-abiding citizens often require firearms for self-defense purposes, and imposing waiting periods unnecessarily hinders their ability to protect themselves and their families. The unconstitutionality of three-day waiting periods is evident when considering the Second Amendment's protection of an individual's right to bear arms.
House Minority Leader Mike Lynch (R), HD65 -- Larimer and Weld Counties.
House Republicans have remained steadfast on the side of the Constitution successfully fending off other sweeping attempts at unconstitutionally restricting firearms in Colorado. House Minority Leader Mike Lynch has said of all these attempts, “By rejecting these ineffective and burdensome policies, we can focus on implementing evidence-based solutions to address real issues such as mental health, improving law enforcement resources, and strengthening background checks. Our goal should always be to keep our communities safe while respecting the constitutional rights of American citizens.”