Democrats in the Colorado House and Senate introduced legislation this week aimed at banning the 3D printing of firearms and firearm components, expanding state restrictions to include digital blueprints and manufacturing instructions.
The proposal, known as House Bill 26-1144, would make it illegal not only to produce firearms and parts using 3D printers and CNC milling machines, but also to possess certain digital files that enable such manufacturing.
The measure has already sparked opposition from gun rights advocates, including the Colorado State Shooting Association, which criticized the legislation in a social media post and warned that it could infringe on constitutional rights.
Under the bill’s language, individuals could face criminal penalties for possessing “digital instructions” under circumstances that suggest intent to manufacture or distribute firearms or components in violation of state law.
The text of the legislation states that it would prohibit:
“Possessing, in circumstances that indicate intent to manufacture a firearm or firearm component in violation of state law or intent to distribute, digital instructions that may be used to program a three-dimensional printer or a computer numerical control milling machine to manufacture or produce a firearm or firearm component.”
Supporters of the bill argue that so-called “ghost guns” and privately manufactured firearms pose a growing threat to public safety. Because such weapons often lack serial numbers, law enforcement agencies say they are difficult to trace and have increasingly appeared at crime scenes.
Democratic lawmakers backing the measure say restricting access to both equipment and digital blueprints is necessary to prevent the spread of unregulated firearms.
In addition to banning 3D-printed guns and parts, HB26-1144 also prohibits the production of “rapid-fire devices,” which are designed to increase a firearm’s rate of fire. These devices have been targeted in other states as part of broader gun control efforts.
Critics, however, argue that the bill goes too far by targeting digital information and files, raising concerns about free speech, privacy, and constitutional protections.
Gun rights advocates contend that banning possession of digital instructions could criminalize otherwise lawful behavior, including hobbyist engineering, educational research, and legitimate manufacturing activities.
They also warn that enforcing such restrictions would be difficult and could lead to selective or inconsistent prosecution.
“This legislation doesn’t just target criminals,” one opponent said. “It targets information and lawful citizens who have done nothing wrong.”
The bill reflects a broader national debate over how to regulate emerging technologies in the firearms industry. As 3D printers become more affordable and accessible, lawmakers in multiple states have sought to limit their use in weapons manufacturing.
HB26-1144 is expected to face hearings in legislative committees in the coming weeks. If passed, it would place Colorado among the states with the most restrictive laws on privately manufactured firearms.
With both sides preparing for a heated debate, the legislation is likely to become a major flashpoint in the state’s ongoing battles over gun rights, public safety, and technological regulation.
