The bill establishes a formal process for federal firearms licensees (FFLs) in Colorado to request a firearm serial number check from their local sheriff’s office before buying a gun from an individual. It aims to prevent the resale of stolen or crime-involved firearms and enhance accountability for firearms dealers.
Key Provisions
1. Voluntary Serial Number Check by Dealers
FFLs may request a firearm serial number check from the sheriff’s office in their county of business before purchasing a gun from a private seller.
Sheriffs must respond within 72 hours of the request.
The check must determine if the firearm is reported stolen, lost, or involved in a criminal investigation.
2. Sheriff Responsibilities
Sheriffs must create a uniform system for submitting and responding to requests.
May charge a reasonable fee to cover direct and indirect costs.
No charge or refund required if they fail to respond within the 72-hour window.
3. Reporting Requirement for Dealers
If a licensed firearms dealer becomes aware that a firearm was stolen, lost, or under investigation, they must report it to local law enforcement within 48 hours.
Applies to all dealers holding a state permit under Section 18-12-401.5.
Failure to report is subject to existing penalties outlined in that section, which may include regulatory action.
4. Enforcement and Penalty Updates
Amends Section 18-12-401.5(7) to include failure to comply with the new reporting requirement (Section 29-11.7-105(4)) among the list of violations that could result in penalties or permit consequences.
5. Effective Date and Referendum Clause
Becomes law 90 days after adjournment, unless challenged by referendum.
If challenged and approved by voters in the November 2026 general election, it will take effect upon the Governor’s official vote declaration.
Implications
For Dealers: Provides a tool to help avoid buying stolen or illegal firearms; adds a legal reporting obligation.
For Law Enforcement: Creates a new administrative responsibility but provides cost recovery through fees.
For Public Safety: Intended to reduce the circulation of firearms linked to crimes.
Summary This bill creates a process for licensed gun dealers to voluntarily check firearm serial numbers before purchase and mandates that dealers report suspected stolen or criminally-linked guns. It also builds enforcement authority into the state’s existing firearm dealer regulations.
Summary
The bill establishes a procedure allowing a federal firearms licensee to request a firearm serial number check prior to purchasing a firearm from an individual and requires a local county sheriff's office to complete the serial number check within 72 hours after the request. The bill imposes a penalty on a licensee if a licensee fails to file a report with law enforcement when the licensee reasonably believes, knows or should know, or becomes aware that a person sold or attempted to sell a firearm that is stolen, lost, or involved in an open criminal investigation.
