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NewsThe HillMay 6, 2026United States

Department of Justice Sues Colorado and Denver Over Firearm Restrictions

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed lawsuits against the state of Colorado and the city of Denver, challenging local bans on high-capacity magazines and semiautomatic rifles as violations of the Second Amendment. Federal officials argue these laws infringe on constitutional rights, while state and local leaders maintain the policies are necessary for public safety.

Second AmendmentGun ControlLitigationColoradoDenverDepartment of Justice
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Why It Matters

The outcome of these lawsuits could invalidate existing state and municipal firearm regulations in Colorado, potentially setting a legal precedent for the enforcement of similar gun control laws nationwide.

Key Facts

  • The DOJ filed a lawsuit against Colorado challenging the state's ban on magazines holding more than 15 rounds of ammunition.
  • The DOJ filed a separate lawsuit against Denver challenging the city's long-standing ban on semiautomatic rifles.
  • The DOJ alleges that both the state magazine ban and the city rifle ban violate the Second Amendment.
  • The Trump administration issued an ultimatum to state and Denver officials last week, demanding they cease enforcement of the bans by 5 p.m. Tuesday.
  • Denver's ban on semiautomatic rifles has been in effect since 1989.
  • Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser stated he will defend the state's magazine limit law in court.
  • Denver Mayor Mike Johnston and the city's police chief publicly stated they will not comply with the DOJ's demand to end enforcement of the city's ban.
  • The DOJ's Civil Rights Division is leading the legal challenge against the state of Colorado.

Who's Mentioned

locationDenver“The city being sued over its semiautomatic rifle ban.”personMike Johnston“Mayor of Denver defending the city's ordinance.”personPhil Weiser“Colorado Attorney General defending the state law.”organizationDepartment of Justice“The federal agency initiating the lawsuits.”personHarmeet K. Dhillon“Assistant Attorney General overseeing the DOJ's Civil Rights Division.”personTodd Blanche“Acting Attorney General announcing the Denver lawsuit.”locationColorado“The state being sued over its magazine capacity law.”