The Bill Introduced on Monday is Similar to Laws Enacted by Florida, Vermont and Maryland Since the Parkland Tragedy
Volunteers with the Colorado Chapter of Moms Demand Action Attended a House Judiciary Committee Hearing in Support of the Proposed Legislation on Tuesday
DENVER – The Colorado chapter of Moms Demand Action, part of Everytown for Gun Safety, today applauded the Colorado House for passing Red Flag legislation, in particular, the leadership of Representatives Alec Garnett (D) and Cole Wist (R). This bill would let family members or law enforcement officers seek an Extreme Risk Protection Order to temporarily block a person’s access to guns if there is evidence that they pose a risk of harm to self or others. More information about this type of legislation is available here. The legislation now moves onto the Colorado Senate.
Since the Parkland tragedy, Florida, Vermont and Maryland have each enacted Red Flag laws with bipartisan support, and eight states now have these policies. Like many mass shooters, the 19-year-old suspected of shooting and killing 17 people and injuring 17 others at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland displayed warning signs prior to the shooting.
In addition to helping prevent mass shootings, Red Flag laws can help prevent suicide: A 2017 study of Connecticut’s Red Flag Law found that the law has already averted an estimated 72 suicides. Reducing a suicidal person’s access to firearms can save their life.
STATEMENT FROM ROBIN LONDON, VOLUNTEER CHAPTER LEAD WITH THE COLORADO CHAPTER OF MOMS DEMAND ACTION FOR GUN SENSE IN AMERICA:
“As Coloradans speak out about the need to better prevent gun violence, our elected officials are paying attention and standing up for legislation that can save lives. This bill will make our families, friends and communities safer by helping to keep guns out of the hands of people who pose a risk to themselves or others. I urge the Senate to keep up the momentum and send this legislation to the governor’s desk.”