State law already bans other kinds of guns in schools. In the past few weeks, Colorado has become a focal point in the national debate over guns. The National Rifle Association has been pushing for more states to allow concealed carry of handguns. After Missouri voters rejected a concealed-carry referendum, Colorado became the most likely place to pass such a law this year. In addition, Denver will host the NRA's national convention at the end of this month.
Critics say legislators are pushing to get some gun laws passed in time for the convention.
Owens has been invited to speak at the convention May 1, but had not committed to the engagement. Another bill, HB 1305, would wipe out most local gun laws. According to a local government lobbying group, the bill would wipe out any local laws that ban juveniles from buying or possessing guns other than handguns. State law prohibits juveniles from buying or possessing handguns. A third bill, SB 205, would block lawsuits against gun manufacturers.