House passes universal background checks, ammo limit, campus concealed carry ban
A digital board in the Colorado Capitol shows the votes on House Bill 1229 on universal background checks, which passed 36-29 on Feb. 18, 2013.
DENVER — The Colorado House approved Monday new ammunition limits and expanded background checks, then moved to ban the concealed carry of firearms on college campuses, partially settling a debate that has drawn White House attention.
The State House, which has a Democratic majority, voted Monday to ban ammunition magazines that hold more than 15 rounds for firearms, and eight for shotguns.
A bill banning concealed weapons on public college campuses passed the House shortly after on a 34-31 vote.
Lawmakers also voted to pass a measure requiring that gun purchasers pay for their own background checks.
The Senate still needs to consider each proposal.
Republicans have opposed the bills, saying they restrict Second Amendment rights and won’t prevent mass shootings. Conservatives argued long into the night last Friday, and were even accused of filibustering on some occasions.
Vice President Joe Biden, who was skiing in the state over the weekend, called four Democrats Friday during those intense debates. Two freshmen legislators in moderate districts, including Tony Exum (D-Colorado Springs), were among those called.
“First I was kind of shocked because it was a restricted number,” Exum said. “He told me we had the opportunity to send a strong message to the rest of the country.”
Another proposal expected to get a vote this week is a bill that would ban concealed weapons on college campuses.
