Colorado could ban 3D printers not under its surveillance to prevent creating gun parts — fourth state to propose new bans is expanding firearms laws to regulate digital files

Colorado is considering a ban on 3D printers not under surveillance to prevent the creation of gun parts, joining other states like New York, Washington, and California in expanding firearms laws to regulate digital files. The proposed bill, HB26-1144, aims to close loopholes created by new technology and make possessing digital instructions for 3D printing firearms a misdemeanor or felony offense. The bill, sponsored by Democrat Representative Lindsay Gilchrist and Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, has passed the Colorado House Judiciary Committee and is moving to the House Floor. The 3D printing community is raising awareness of the potential negative impacts of these bills on manufacturing, STEM education, and the hobby of 3D printing.