DENVER-
The state Senate gave final approval Friday to a measure barring Colorado residents from getting concealed weapons permits from other states. The bill now heads to the House.
Out-of-state visitors would be allowed to use only permits issued by their home states, not a third state, under the proposal (Senate Bill 34).
Sen. John Morse, D-Colorado Springs, said Colorado has the right to keep track of who has a concealed weapons permit and whether it should be revoked if the holder breaks the law. He said residents have been applying for permits from other states where they are easier and cheaper to obtain.
Colorado permit holders must apply in person and undergo a background check. The permit costs $152.50 and lasts for five years.
Sen. Greg Brophy, R-Wray, said some Colorado residents may want a permit from another state because they travel there for work. He said the bill unfairly targets people who follow the law.
“Let’s remember who the criminals are here,” he said.
The Senate backed the proposal in a 20-15 vote with two Republicans—Sens. Ken Kester and Jack Taylor—voting with most of the Democrats to support it. Sen. Lois Tochtrop, D-Thornton, and Sen. Jim Isgar, D-Hesperus, were the only Democrats who voted against.
