Attorney General talks red flag bill at Manitou Springs town hall

A town hall in Manitou Springs Thursday night brought lots of controversy on bills at the Colorado legislature.

The public meeting was hosted by local Democrat lawmakers, Senator Pete Lee and Representative Marc Snyder. Joining them was Attorney General Phil Weiser.

The room inside the Manitou Springs Art Center filled up quickly, with people eager to get their questions answered, most of two big topics; vaccines and the Red Flag Bill.

All three men standing up front are in support of the bill. Weiser testified before a Senate committee showing his support for it.

The big question opposers of the bill are asking; is it constitutional?

Weiser says, “I believe it’s constitutional. There are several 16 or so nationwide. None of them have been invalidated.”

Some people in the audience, don’t agree.

Kevin Moore, who opposes the bill says, “they say you are guilty until proven innocent.”

John Blair agrees with him, “they feel it’s okay to vote for something that may or may not have abuse attached to it.”

The bill only has one more step before becoming law and that’s Governor Jared Polis’ signature.

When that happens, Sheriff Bill Elder among others says he plans on challenging it in court, but if found constitutional, he will enforce it.

Weiser said he’s prepared to see him there.

“This is a good law that will protect lives. I want to give a shoutout to Sheriff Elder. He’s been very principal in how he’s talked about. He and I may differ in the constitutionality. We’ll fight that out in court,” he explains.

The bill passed through the House on party lines, and through the Senate by 1 vote.

Several counties have come forward showing their opposition against the bill.