Boulder County gun control ordinances move to public hearing

Jul. 5—Boulder County residents will next month have a chance to weigh in on five proposed ordinances designed to address gun violence.

The Boulder County Commissioners introduced the ordinances in a meeting on Tuesday and unanimously agreed to send all five to a public hearing on Aug. 2.

The new ordinances include a ban on the sale of assault weapons and the possession of "ghost guns," a 21-year age restriction for purchasing a firearm, a waiting period for purchasing a firearm and restrictions on carrying firearms in sensitive public areas.

The ordinance classifies "ghost guns" as unserialized and untraceable firearms that can be bought online and assembled at home.

The commissioners did not ask questions or discuss the ordinances much in Tuesday's hearing, noting the time for in-depth consideration is in the hearing next month.

However, Commissioner Matt Jones acknowledged the significance, as the country grapples with a mass shooting that occurred on Monday at an Independence Day parade in a Chicago suburb.

"Again, we had another mass shooting July Fourth in Illinois," Jones said. "These measures are needed. I hope others around the country do the same."

A second reading, including the opportunity for oral public comment, is scheduled for Aug. 2. Written comments should be submitted online by July 31.

For more information and to leave a comment, visit bouldercounty.org/departments/commissioners/proposed-gun-violence-prevention-ordinances.