As Colorado legislators debate HB26-1012, business leaders are voicing concerns that the bill could negatively affect small businesses, local events, and consumer options across the state. The legislation seeks to regulate how businesses price goods and services in locations where customers may have limited choices, using standards that critics describe as broad and undefined.
Supporters of HB26-1012 say it aims to ensure fair pricing for consumers. However, industry representatives argue its vague language could create challenges for various sectors including cultural events, entertainment venues, cafeterias, gift shops, and sports arenas.
“Colorado’s economy and identity are built around choice, local entrepreneurship, and unique experiences,” said Leslie Oliver, Vice President of External Affairs for the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. “HB26-1012 moves in the opposite direction by imposing sweeping pricing restrictions that are unclear, unworkable, and ultimately harmful to the very consumers and communities it aims to protect.”
Business leaders warn that restricting pricing flexibility would limit product variety available to consumers and could lead to higher costs elsewhere as companies adjust operations to comply with subjective standards. They also note that Colorado is known nationally for its festivals and community gatherings—such as the National Western Stock Show and Pueblo’s Chile & Frijole Festival—which depend on adaptable pricing models to support small vendors.
The bill’s provisions could threaten these events by limiting revenue strategies needed to cover operational expenses like permits and staffing. Many small vendors rely on such gatherings as key opportunities to reach new customers.
Additionally, venues partnering with local restaurants or artists might find it harder to offer authentic Colorado-made products if their ability to set prices is restricted. This could weaken both economic opportunities for small businesses and the state’s distinctive cultural offerings.
Small enterprises would face particular challenges under HB26-1012 due to increased compliance requirements. Unlike larger corporations with more resources, smaller firms may struggle with legal risks associated with unclear regulatory language. According to business advocates, 85% of Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce members are small or medium-sized businesses who would be most affected by these changes.
Business groups argue that amendments cannot resolve what they see as fundamental issues within the bill’s design. They believe lawmakers must decide whether protecting consumer choice and supporting local culture outweighs advancing regulations they view as overreaching.
“Given the bill’s broad scope and the significant unintended consequences raised by businesses across Colorado,” Oliver said. “The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and broader business community are calling on lawmakers to reject HB26-1012 because it could take away consumer choice and economic opportunity, and it risks undermining the small businesses, cultural experiences, and community and sports events that define Colorado’s way of life.”
The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce describes itself as an advocate for effective public policy aimed at fostering a vibrant economy in Colorado through supporting a skilled workforce and promoting sustainable growth among its members.
