A proposed amendment to House Bill 1133, aimed at increasing penalties for ammunition theft, sparked significant debate during the Colorado Senate's recent legislative session. Senator Fazel introduced Amendment 071, which seeks to classify the theft of ammunition as a class 6 felony, escalating to a class 5 felony for repeat offenders. This move is part of a broader effort to address rising retail theft concerns, particularly in the context of ammunition, which has been highlighted as a growing issue for retailers.

Senator Liston voiced strong support for the amendment, emphasizing the need for serious repercussions for those who steal ammunition, which can be costly and dangerous. He argued that theft of ammunition should not be treated lightly, as it poses a greater risk than typical shoplifting. The senator pointed out that the increasing value of ammunition makes it a prime target for theft, and he urged colleagues to support the amendment to deter such crimes.

Conversely, Senator Wiseman raised concerns about whether the amendment aligns with the original purpose of the bill, which focuses on the retail sale of ammunition. He highlighted existing provisions in Colorado's theft statutes that already address varying degrees of theft based on value, suggesting that the amendment may not be necessary.

Despite the pushback, supporters like Senator Carson argued that the amendment directly addresses the criminal behavior associated with ammunition theft and aligns with ongoing legislative efforts to combat retail theft more broadly. Carson noted that similar legislation regarding firearm theft is currently progressing in the House, reinforcing the need for a cohesive approach to these issues.

As discussions continue, the fate of Amendment 071 remains uncertain, but its introduction underscores the Colorado Senate's commitment to tackling retail theft and ensuring public safety in the context of firearm and ammunition sales. The outcome of this amendment could set a precedent for how theft of ammunition is treated under state law, reflecting the ongoing tension between public safety concerns and legislative approaches to crime.