Title 18, 44 USC, ss. 926B and 926C, "The Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004" (a/k/a "HR 218") establishes the right of retired LE Officers to carry weapons throughout the country.  Colorado "Rule 27" establishes procedures for retired LE officers to obtain firearms certifications in the county of residence in Colorado.  This page establishes procedures for accomplishing this in Archuleta County.

In summary, HR218 establishes the definition of "retired LE officer" and requirements for credentialing retired officers.  To be covered under this law, the retired officer must carry a photo ID issued by the agency from which they are retired.  The county of current residence issues a certification card.  These two documents together establish the right to carry throughout the country.  Be aware, however, that some localities may not honor these documents.  Also be aware that it is the retired officer's responsibility to insure the requirements of HR218 are fulfilled.  Archuleta County only issues the firearms certification.  The authority to carry is established by Federal Law.

To obtain the firearm certification from the Archuleta County Sheriff, you must fill out an application.  Once the application has been approved by the State, an appointment will be set up to qualify on the range.  These qualifications are normally held in conjunction with normal departmental firearms qualifications. It will be the retired officer's responsibility to provide the firearm and factory loaded ammunition.  The normal charge for the proof of qualification is $13 payable to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and $15 payable to the Archuleta Sheriff's Department.  However, if a personal qualification session is required and if it can be arranged, there will be an additional charge of $300 payable in advance to the Sheriff's Department.

• Application
• Rule 27
• HR218 FAQ
• HR218