New laws went into effect in Colorado on July 1, impacting various aspects of the state’s regulations. The legislation includes changes to gun store licenses, firearm permits, youth pretrial detention, and other important areas. Here is a detailed breakdown of some of the key laws that took effect on Tuesday:
New Gun Regulations:
Two gun control measures from the previous legislative session were implemented on Tuesday, aiming to tighten regulations on the sale and carrying of firearms in Colorado. House Bill 24-1174 now requires individuals applying for a concealed-carry permit to undergo in-person training, pass a written exam, and participate in a live-fire exercise with a gun. The training course must last at least eight hours and cover both written and practical assessments. Additionally, House Bill 24-1353 mandates that gun shops obtain a state license, in addition to the existing federal permit, for selling firearms. The law also requires stores to conduct fingerprint background checks on employees every three years, provide training on preventing self-harm and straw purchases, and undergo random inspections to ensure compliance.
Compromise on Youth Detention Beds:
House Bill 1146, the result of extensive negotiations, allows for an increase in the number of beds available for pretrial detention of juveniles in Colorado. While the state law currently caps the number of detained youths at 215, this bill permits an additional 17 emergency beds to be used only when the cap has been reached. The legislation also initiates a pilot program for staff members to wear body-worn cameras in certain detention and commitment facilities.
More Judges Across the State:
Senate Bill 24 adds 15 judges to various district and county courts in Colorado, with funding for five positions starting on July 1. The additional judgeships aim to address caseloads and improve access to justice across the state. New judges will be appointed to districts in El Paso, Adams, Arapahoe, and Douglas counties, as well as a county judge in La Plata County.
Repealed Grant Programs:
Due to budget constraints, several grant programs were officially repealed on July 1. Among these were grants for computer science education for public school teachers, funding for high schools to cover advanced placement and International Baccalaureate exams, and grants for higher education institutions to support programs for students with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Expanded Shield Law:
A bipartisan law, House Bill 1138, expands protections for victims of sexual assault in civil cases. The legislation prohibits the use of speech, hairstyle, lifestyle, and clothing as evidence related to consent, harm, or credibility in such proceedings. Defense attorneys are limited in their ability to introduce such evidence, with restrictions on past sexual history unless directly related to DNA or biological evidence.
These new laws reflect Colorado’s ongoing efforts to address various issues and enhance public safety and access to justice. Stay informed about legislative developments by subscribing to our weekly newsletter, The Spot.
