Federal Judge Upholds Colorado Law Requiring Safety Courses for Semi‑Automatic Guns

On November 5, 2026, a senior U.S. District Judge in Denver rejected a request from six gun owners and the Colorado State Shooting Association to block a state law that bans rapid‑fire devices and imposes new training requirements for semi‑automatic firearms.

The law, Senate Bill 25‑3, took effect in August 2025. First‑time violators face a class 2 misdemeanor, while repeat offenses can rise to a class 6 felony.

What the Law Requires

Anyone wishing to purchase a semi‑automatic rifle in Colorado must complete either a four‑hour hunter‑education safety course or a twelve‑hour course spread over two days. The training must be taught by a sheriff‑verified firearms instructor, and exam results are entered into a statewide database.

After completing the course, the local sheriff generally issues an eligibility card, but may refuse it if the sheriff reasonably believes the applicant could pose a danger to themselves or others.

1. 1Complete a 4‑hour hunter‑education safety course or a 12‑hour two‑day course taught by a sheriff‑verified inst
2. 2Pass the final exam; results are entered into a statewide database
3. 3Apply for an eligibility card from the local sheriff
4. 4If approved, use the card to complete the rifle purchase

Source: Courthouse News Service

Why the Challenge Was Rejected

The plaintiffs argued that the law violates the Second Amendment, citing the Supreme Court’s 2022 Bruen decision, which requires a two‑step test: first, the plaintiff must show the conduct is protected; second, the government must show the restriction aligns with historical regulation.

Judge Martinez concluded the plaintiffs failed the first step, noting they did not prove that law‑abiding citizens commonly use the specific semi‑automatic firearms for self‑defense. Because the first prong was not met, the judge did not reach the historical‑tradition analysis.

Practical Impact for Colorado Residents

The ruling means the safety‑course requirement and rapid‑fire device ban remain enforceable. Anyone seeking to buy a semi‑automatic rifle must now enroll in an approved course and obtain a sheriff’s eligibility card before purchase.

If a person attempts to purchase a rifle without completing the course, they could be charged with a class 2 misdemeanor for a first offense or a class 6 felony for repeat violations.

What This Means for Potential Litigants

The decision underscores that challenges to state gun restrictions will likely need to meet the Bruen first‑step hurdle before courts will consider historical analogues. The Supreme Court is expected to address the split among circuit courts on this issue later this term.

People who feel they have been wrongly denied an eligibility card or who are charged under the new penalties may want to consult an attorney familiar with firearms law.

What this means: our conclusions

1 Risk2 What to watch1 Context1 What to do

1. ContextLaw Remains Enforced

   Colorado’s safety‑course requirement and rapid‑fire ban stay active, meaning gun owners must comply or face misdemeanor/felony charges.

2. What to watchHigher Burden for Future Challenges

   Plaintiffs must first prove a weapon is commonly used for self‑defense before courts will weigh historical analogues, raising the bar for challenges.

3. RiskPotential Impact on Purchasers

   Anyone buying a semi‑automatic rifle now must budget time and money for the required training, affecting hobbyists and sport shooters.

4. What to watchSignal to Other States

   The decision may embolden other states with similar training‑based restrictions, as courts see the first‑step hurdle as decisive.

5. What to doConsult an Attorney

   If you are denied an eligibility card or charged under the new penalties, speaking with a firearms‑law attorney can clarify options.

Element	Requirement
Rapid‑Fire Devices	Banned
Semi‑Automatic Rifle Purchase	Must complete 4‑hour or 12‑hour safety course
Eligibility Card	Issued by sheriff; may be denied for safety concerns
First Offense Penalty	Class 2 misdemeanor
Repeat Offense Penalty	Class 6 felony

Source: Courthouse News Service

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This article is general information based on Courthouse News Service and court or agency records available at publication time. It is not legal advice; laws and deadlines differ by state and by case. Published November 5, 2026.