Starting in the summer of 2026, a new law signed by Governor Jared Polis will require ammunition to be stored behind counters or in locked shelves in Colorado. House Bill 1133 mandates that customers can only access ammunition with the assistance of a store employee, effectively banning the use of ammo vending machines. The law also prohibits the sale of ammunition to individuals under the age of 18, with exemptions for those between 18 and 21, individuals who have completed a hunter’s safety course, and military servicemembers and police officers.
Ammunition is defined under the law as “ammunition or a cartridge case, primer, bullet, or propellant powder designed for use in a firearm.” The bill was sponsored by Democratic Representatives Monica Duran and Lindsay Gilchrist, as well as Senators Judy Amabile and Cathy Kipp. The law will go into effect on July 1, 2026.
In addition to the ammunition storage requirements, Governor Polis also signed House Bill 1238, which introduces new security and age regulations for gun shows. The legislation mandates that gun shows must have a security plan outlining vendors, venue layout, and expected attendees, which must be submitted to local law enforcement. Gun shows are also required to have liability insurance, video cameras, and tagging for firearms brought in by non-vendors.
Furthermore, individuals under the age of 18 are generally not allowed to attend gun shows without a parent, grandparent, or guardian present. Promoters of gun shows must ensure that customers comply with the state’s three-day waiting period law, which mandates a waiting period between purchasing and taking possession of a firearm.
Governor Polis stated in a signing statement that he signed the gun show legislation despite acknowledging that gun shows are already safe environments. He also clarified that the law does not apply to antique gun shows.
These new laws aim to enhance safety measures surrounding the sale and access to ammunition and firearms in Colorado. Stay informed about Colorado politics by signing up for the weekly newsletter, The Spot.
