DENVER (AP) — A trial over Colorado laws imposing new firearm restrictions is getting under way in federal court.
The lawsuit filed by gun-rights advocates and Colorado sheriffs seeks to overturn legislation signed last year by Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper. The laws, which took effect July 1, limit the size of ammunition magazines to 15 rounds and expand background checks to firearm sales online and private sellers.
The laws were a response to mass shootings at a suburban Denver movie theater and Connecticut's Sandy Hook Elementary School.
Supporters say the laws are necessary to improve public safety, but lawsuit backers argue the laws violate the Second Amendment.
U.S. District Judge Marcia Krieger in Denver will preside over the case, which begins Monday with opening arguments. The trial is scheduled to last two weeks.
