Colorado's House Judiciary Committee has approved a bill to prohibit 3D printing of firearms and related components. The measure, HB26-1144, also targets possession and distribution of manufacturing instructions. It aims to address the challenges posed by untraceable ghost guns.
Lawmakers in Colorado are pushing forward with legislation to curb the production of ghost guns using 3D printers. On February 22, 2026, the state's House Judiciary Committee voted 7-4 in favor of HB26-1144, sending it to the full House of Representatives for consideration.
The bill specifically prohibits the use of three-dimensional printers or similar technology to manufacture firearms or firearm components, including large-capacity magazines. Ghost guns, which lack serial numbers, are difficult for law enforcement to trace and allow individuals to bypass federal firearm purchase requirements. Beyond production, the proposal makes it illegal to possess or distribute instructions for creating these weapons. Federally licensed firearm manufacturers are exempt from these restrictions.
Bill sponsor Lindsay Gilchrist highlighted the public safety concerns in a press release: "These ghost guns are increasingly found at crime scenes, making it harder for law enforcement to track down a suspect because the gun isn’t traceable."
This effort builds on a 2023 Colorado law, SB23-279, which banned ownership of ghost guns and the making of their frames. HB26-1144 extends those measures by addressing the manufacturing process earlier. Violations would be classified as misdemeanors for first offenses and felonies for repeats.
The bill now requires approval from both the Colorado Senate and House before it can reach the governor for signature.
