As a mother, wife, and grandmother, I am deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of my loved ones and fellow Coloradans. The recent crime wave, marked by violent incidents involving Venezuelan gangs, has instilled fear in our communities.
And yet still, the Colorado legislature is considering Senate Bill 3, which aims to ban the manufacture and sale of certain semiautomatic firearms. However, this legislation, even with its recent amendments that make those weapons available with training and permits, threatens to undermine our right to self-defense and disproportionately impacts law-abiding citizens, especially women and minorities.
As an NRA-certified instructor and the state director for Women for Gun Rights, I have dedicated myself to empowering women through education and training in firearm safety and self-defense. Firearms serve as the great equalizer, enabling women to protect themselves against larger aggressors. The original version of SB3 sought to ban a wide number of semiautomatic firearms that have detachable magazines, including popular models used for home defense.
To address concerns, lawmakers introduced an amendment that provides a carveout for individuals who complete a state-regulated training course. While training is essential, mandating government-approved courses as a prerequisite for exercising a constitutional right is burdensome and exclusionary. This requirement could deter individuals who cannot afford the time or cost associated with such training, leaving them defenseless in critical situations.
Expanded restrictions and overreach
Another amendment to SB3 exempts certain semiautomatic rifles, many of them historical military weapons commonly used for hunting, from the ban. While this may appear as a concession, it fails to address the core issue: the legislation still prohibits many firearms that citizens rely on for self-defense. By focusing on specific models and features, SB3 overlooks the practical needs of individuals seeking effective means to protect themselves and their families.
Women, particularly those who have survived domestic abuse, often turn to firearms as a reliable means of protection. Studies indicate that nearly 25% of women in the U.S. own at least one firearm, with personal protection cited as the primary reason. SB3’s restrictions could leave these women more vulnerable, as they may be unable to acquire the tools necessary for their defense in a timely manner.
Instead of imposing broad restrictions that hinder law-abiding citizens, lawmakers should focus on enforcing existing laws and targeting criminal activities. Strengthening penalties for violent offenders, enhancing mental health support, and providing resources for domestic violence survivors are measures that can effectively address the root causes of violence without infringing upon constitutional rights.
In conclusion, while the intent behind SB3 may be to enhance public safety, its approach is fundamentally flawed. By restricting access to essential self-defense tools and imposing onerous requirements, the legislation jeopardizes the safety of those it aims to protect. I urge Colorado’s lawmakers to reconsider SB3 and prioritize solutions that uphold our rights while genuinely promoting public safety.
Barbara Miller is the Colorado director of Women for Gun Rights
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