Greg Gianforte invites Colorado gunmakers to move to Montana

In the United States, following the passage of one of the most strict gun control laws in Colorado, Montana's Governor Greg Gianforte has actively reached out to gun manufacturers in Colorado, inviting them to move to more favorable conditions in Montana. This new legislation, Senate Bill 3, which was signed by Colorado Governor Jared Polis, effectively bans the manufacture, sale, and purchase of semi-automatic firearms, including popular models like AR-15s and AK-47s, and is scheduled to take effect in August 2026. The motivation behind this legislation stems from the advocacy of gun control supporters, such as State Rep. Tom Sullivan, who was personally impacted by gun violence. In contrast to Colorado's restrictive measures, Gianforte's administration touts Montana's pro-business and pro-Second Amendment stance. Gianforte has emphasized that Montana stands by gun rights and is establishing policies that protect firearm manufacturers and sellers. He has claimed considerable interest from Colorado's gun manufacturing community, asserting that during his outreach to six companies, five expressed intentions to explore Montana as a potential location for their operations. This trend reflects a broader movement among gun manufacturers who have been seeking refuge in states considered more gun-friendly in response to increasing regulatory pressures elsewhere. These developments also highlight a growing exodus of firearms manufacturers from states with restrictive gun laws. For instance, companies like Henry Repeating Arms and Magpul have already moved their operations from states like New Jersey and Colorado to states with more favorable business climates. Gianforte has also pointed out that Montana's low tax burden and business-friendly environment can be particularly appealing to these manufacturers. The governor's efforts are getting attention at industry trade shows where Montana officials have made connections with companies that are contemplating a shift of their operations due to regulatory changes in their current states. As the situation evolves, it will be important to monitor how many Colorado gun manufacturers take up Gianforte's offer and how the broader landscape of gun manufacturing in the United States might shift as a result of legislative changes. The implications of these conversations for gun rights advocacy and business practices in the firearms industry are profound, and the responses from Colorado lawmakers regarding the impact of these relocations remain to be seen.