Senate passes bill raising minimum age to buy most ammunition to 21, with carve-outs for military, hunters and ranges

The Colorado Senate on March 24 adopted House Bill 11‑33, a measure that raises the minimum age to buy most ammunition to 21 and imposes new seller and delivery verification requirements, while preserving a set of exemptions and penalties for noncompliance.

Senator Kipp, the bill sponsor, told colleagues the measure "will help close these gaps," summarizing the bill as aimed at restricting ammunition access for people under 21 while preserving specific exceptions for public-safety and lawful uses. The Senate approved the measure after extended floor debate and multiple amendment attempts; the ayes prevailed and the bill was adopted.

Why it matters: Supporters argued the change aligns ammunition access with the existing 21‑plus standard for many firearms purchases and will limit access to bullets by people the legislature deems too young for certain purchases. Opponents — including several senators who represent rural districts and hunting families — said the measure would hamper traditional hunting instruction, reloading hobbies and farm needs, and they pushed a series of amendments to carve out specific calibers or categories of purchasers.

What the bill requires and allows - Minimum…