A Senate Committee has approved a Democratic bill that would expand required federal background checks for nearly all gun purchasers.

The measure, sponsored by New York Democratic Senator Charles Schumer, was approved in a 10 to 8 committee vote Tuesday.

Expanding required federal background checks was one of President Barack Obama's proposals to curb gun violence following the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.

Schumer said the measure will reduce gun crimes. But Republicans in the committee meeting, including Iowa Senator Charles Grassley, objected to the measure because they think it will ultimately lead to a federal registry of gun owners.

In Colorado, the state senate has approved several new laws that would put more restrictions of firearms.

The bills include:
• The 15-round limit on ammunition magazines
• An expansion of background checks
• A ban on gun ownership for people accused of domestic violence

Democrats dropped two of the most controversial proposals. This package does not include a ban on guns on college campuses, or a measure to make gun owners and sellers legally liable for their weapons.

Most of the proposals now move on to the state house for debate there.

We'll let you know what happens next.