Civil Liberties

CO Governor Gets 'Universal' Background Check Bill for Guns

Which will be almost universally ignored

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Whether it's a purchase from a big-box outdoor supply store or a swap between close friends, Coloradans should have to undergo a background check when they sell and transfer a firearm, the state House and Senate decided Friday.

The universal background checks measure now moves to Gov. John Hickenlooper, who has indicated he will sign it into law. It would take affect July 1.

Prior to Friday's vote, House Bill 1229 had passed through both chambers, but because of minor amendments, each chamber had to recast votes.

All House and Senate Republicans voted against the bill, with Sen. Lois Tochtrop, D-Thornton, and Rep. Ed Vigil, D-Fort Garland, joining them.