HB 22-1086

HB 22-1086, known as the Vote Without Fear Act, makes it illegal for people to openly carry firearms within polling places or central count facilities and within 100 feet of ballot drop boxes during election periods. The law requires visible signs to be posted around these areas to inform voters about the no-firearm zone. Exceptions are made for property owners within this buffer zone, peace officers, and uniformed security guards performing their duties. Violators can face misdemeanor charges with fines up to $1,000 or jail time of up to 364 days, though first-time offenders may receive a lesser penalty. The bill has been signed into law, meaning it is now active legislation in Colorado.

Official Summary

The act prohibits a person from openly carrying a firearm within any polling location or central count facility, or within 100 feet of a ballot drop box or any building in which a polling location or central count facility is located, while an election or any related ongoing election administration activity is in progress. The designated election official responsible for any central count facility, polling location, or drop box involved in that election cycle shall visibly place a sign notifying persons of the 100-foot no open carry zone for firearms. Exceptions are made for persons who own private property within the 100-foot buffer zone to carry a firearm on the private property; peace officers acting within the scope and authority of their duties to carry a firearm; and uniformed security guards employed by a contract security agency acting within the scope of the authority granted by and in the performance of a contractual agreement for the provision of security services with a person or entity that owns or controls the facility, building, or location. Openly carrying a firearm inside or within 100 feet of a polling location, central count facility, or drop box is a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum $1,000 fine, up to 364 days imprisonment in the county jail, or both; except that, for a first offense, the fine shall not exceed $250 and the sentence of imprisonment shall not exceed 120 days. (Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)

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