The success is a coup for SAFE Colorado, and a blow for the National Rifle Association and other gun groups who fought the measure, even convincing the Republican-led legislature to kill a similar bill. SAFE's leaders, riding on their success, vow to keep a close eye on the Colorado legislature, and fight expected efforts to loosen concealed-weapon laws. As the proposal sailed to success, the group reveled in deriding the gun lobby. The new law will change the nature of gun shows, the flea market-like events held nearly every weekend somewhere in Colorado. Before, hobbyists, collectors or individuals trying to unload a collection that Grandpa left behind could rent a table and sell a gun to anyone.
Critics say the law unfairly targets gun shows, and leaves gaping holes for felons to buy guns.
Private sales from homes and newspaper classified ads remain unregulated by background checks. Oregon voters approved a similar law Tuesday. In Colorado, the fight is far from over. Paul Grant, the Englewood attorney who lost a series of legal challenges to keep the initiative off the ballot, plans to keep up his courtroom battles. Grant believes all background checks are unconstitutional.