On May 15, 2026, the Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR) published official guidance related to Senate Bill 25-003 (SB25-003), identifying specific firearms that fall under the state’s new “Specified Semiautomatic Firearms” (SSF) category.
The draft guidance document spans 152 pages and organizes firearms into three categories:
- Semiautomatic rifles with detachable magazines
- Semiautomatic shotguns with detachable magazines
- Gas-operated semiautomatic pistols with detachable magazines
Beginning August 1, 2026, individuals seeking to purchase or transfer a Specified Semiautomatic Firearm (SSF) in Colorado will be required to complete a firearms safety course before the transaction may occur.
Under SB25-003, an SSF is defined as a semiautomatic rifle or shotgun with a detachable magazine, or a gas-operated semiautomatic handgun with a detachable magazine. The Department of Revenue is responsible for maintaining and continuously updating the list of designated SSFs as manufacturers introduce new firearms to the market.
This legislation applies to the purchase or transfer of Specified Semiautomatic Firearms occurring on or after August 1, 2026. Individuals lawfully in possession of an SSF before that date are not affected by the law.
Joseph Roybal, Sheriff of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, is encouraging residents of the Pikes Peak region to review the guidance document, submit comments to the Colorado Department of Revenue, and remain engaged throughout the implementation process.
“Second Amendment rights matter deeply to many citizens in our community, and I encourage everyone to stay informed and engaged as this law moves toward implementation,” Sheriff Joseph Roybal stated. “My office is actively developing a rollout plan for SB25-003 to make the process as efficient as possible and ensure convenience for law-abiding citizens who wish to exercise their Second Amendment rights.
“This process will be clear, accessible, and convenient for our community.”
Sheriff Roybal also encouraged citizens to review the state’s draft guidance and provide public feedback.
“Public input matters,” Roybal added. “I strongly encourage citizens to review the proposed guidance, understand how it may affect them, and share feedback as the state finalizes implementation.”
Residents are encouraged to review the SB25-003 Specified Semiautomatic Firearms Guidance (Draft – May 15, 2026) and submit comments here.