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Colorado Democrats expected to introduce ‘Red Flag’ bill in legislative session

Posted at 6:16 AM, Jan 04, 2019
and last updated 2019-01-04 10:32:54-05

DENVER – As Colorado lawmakers convene at the state capitol Friday, several issues are expected to come up early in the legislative session, with one dealing with access to firearms.

Lawmakers are expected to introduce a so-called “red flag bill,” which would allow family or law enforcement to petition a court to evaluate a person’s mental health. If the subject of the petition was found to be dangerous to themselves and others, law enforcement could seize their weapons.

Critics of the legislation say that it violates the second amendment and limits gun owners’ rights. Those in favor of the idea say it would help prevent suicides and mass shootings. Last year, a Colorado Senate panel rejected the measure after it passed the house on a near party-line vote. Most Democrats supported the bill, while almost all Republicans opposed it.

The bill was named after Douglas County Sheriff’s deputy Zackari Parrish, who was killed in the line of duty on Dec. 31, 2017.

Deputy Parrish was killed by a man he had visited earlier that morning on a mental health call.

Following November’s election, Colorado Democrats will control the House, Senate and governor’s office.

(The Associated Press contributed to this story)