Overview of Recent Developments

In a bold move, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte has reached out to gun manufacturers currently based in Colorado, encouraging them to consider moving their operations to Montana. This appeal follows the recent enactment of stringent gun regulations in Colorado, including a new law that requires a permit to purchase Modern Sporting Rifles (MSRs) signed by Governor Jared Polis.

Colorado’s New Gun Law

The legislation, known as SB3, poses significant restrictions on the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of MSRs and follows an earlier ban on high-capacity magazines. The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) has been vocal in its opposition to this law, stating it infringes on Second Amendment rights. NSSF officials indicated that such regulations target law-abiding citizens rather than addressing the issue of gun violence effectively.

Gianforte’s Response to Colorado’s Laws

Following this move by Colorado’s government, Gianforte took to social media to extend an invitation to Colorado’s gun manufacturers. He posed a direct question: “Do you want to move back to America?” emphasizing the favorable business climate and supportive firearm laws in Montana.

“The Democrat governor of Colorado signed into law one of the most restrictive gun bans ever adopted in the United States,” said Gov. Gianforte. “The law bans the manufacturing and selling of semiautomatic firearms. This is on top of the liberal state’s existing ban on high-capacity magazines. That’s just crazy.”

Economic Implications for Colorado

Gianforte highlighted the potential economic fallout for Colorado, warning that gun manufacturers and related businesses may relocate, taking both jobs and tax revenue with them. He noted Colorado’s position among the top states for firearm industry economic contributions, with an impact exceeding $1.3 billion and nearly 7,000 jobs linked to this sector.

Montana’s Appeal

Montana’s governor emphasizes that his state is open to business and offers favorable policies for firearm manufacturers. Montana is home to over 150 firearms and ammunition manufacturers, more than any other state on a per capita basis. Gianforte promotes Montana as a Constitutional Carry state and assures potential relocators that they would be welcomed with open arms.

“Montana is open for business, home to more than 150 firearms and ammunition manufacturers, the highest per capita in the country,” stated Gov. Gianforte. “We are a Constitutional Carry state that has enacted laws outlawing discrimination against gun and ammunition manufacturers. In Montana, we embrace freedom and the free enterprise system. Come on home to America, right here in Montana.”

Recent Relocations and Growth

In recent years, several firearm-related businesses have made the move to Montana. Companies such as Ultimate Defense Technologies and Brixtel Defense relocated and expanded their operations in the state due to the favorable legislative environment and support from state officials like Gov. Gianforte.

Conclusion

As Montana positions itself as an attractive destination for firearm manufacturers, the repercussions of Colorado’s new gun laws may lead to significant shifts in the industry landscape. With Gianforte’s open invitation, Montana could see further growth in its firearm sector, benefiting from the departure of firms seeking a more supportive regulatory environment.