Gun Violence Costs Colorado $11.7 Billion Annually, Prop KK Holds The Gun Industry Accountable

October 24, 2024

Guns Down America Announces Endorsement for CO's Prop KK, the only gun-related ballot measure in the country this November

DENVER—Guns Down America proudly endorses Colorado's Proposition KK: Firearm and Ammunition Excise Tax—the only gun violence-related ballot measure in this year's election. Prop KK would create a new tax on firearms, firearm parts, and ammunition, and use the revenue for crime victim services, mental health services for veterans and youth, and school safety programs. Hudson Munoz, Guns Down America's executive director, released the following statement:

"Gun violence costs Colorado $11.7 billion annually, with taxpayers covering $156.1 million. Prop KK offers a common sense solution by holding gun manufacturers, dealers, and vendors accountable through a modest excise tax. This measure ensures Americans most impacted by guns, like our veterans and domestic violence survivors, get essential services while shifting financial responsibility where it belongs: on the dealers and manufacturers. Voters face a simple choice: keep bearing the cost of gun violence or make the gun industry accountable for the damage it causes."

Background

Since 2018, funding for victim support services in Colorado has dropped by 75%, from $56 million to just $13 million this year, leaving many in crisis without access to life-saving resources. Prop KK will restore critical funding and ensure that Coloradans have the help they need when they need it most. If passed, it will generate $39 million each year, which will be invested in essential services.

In addition to supporting victims of violence, Prop KK addresses the root causes of the growing crisis of homelessness, drug abuse, and crime by providing resources for mental health care and violence prevention.