As Colorado’s legislative session reaches its first month, the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce is paying close attention to proposed bills that could impact the business environment in Western Colorado. The chamber notes that policy decisions made at the Capitol can either bring stability or add new costs and risks for businesses in a region shaped by geography, tourism, and population.
Two current bills are central to this debate. HB26-1012, which addresses consumer transparency in delivery platform pricing, has drawn opposition from the Grand Junction Chamber. While supporting clear communication with customers, the chamber is concerned about the bill’s introduction of a “captive consumer” designation and its prohibition on prices considered “unreasonably excessive” when competition is limited.
The chamber argues that limited competition in Western Colorado often results from geography rather than unfair practices. Many local businesses—such as concert venues, ski areas, tourist destinations, and rural vendors—face unique challenges like higher insurance premiums and seasonal staffing needs. The chamber believes that subjective pricing standards would create uncertainty and risk for these businesses.
“Who determines what constitutes a fair market price in a ski town during peak season, at a sold-out concert, or in a rural community with limited service options? How are fluctuating costs evaluated, and by whom? How is enforcement applied consistently across regions with vastly different economic realities? Without clear, objective standards, businesses are left navigating ambiguity that can discourage investment, limit services, and ultimately reduce consumer choice,” stated the Grand Junction Chamber.
In contrast, HB26-1014 has received support from the chamber for extending the Colorado Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit through 2034. This tax credit requires companies to create jobs and meet wage requirements before receiving benefits. The chamber considers it vital for attracting new businesses as well as helping existing employers grow locally.
“This incentive is not a handout. Businesses must create new jobs and meet wage and investment requirements before receiving any benefit,” according to the Grand Junction Chamber.
For economic development organizations in Western Colorado such as the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, policies like HB26-1014 help ensure local companies continue expanding instead of relocating elsewhere. Extending this incentive aims to make Colorado more competitive while supporting communities outside major metropolitan areas.
“Extending this incentive strengthens Colorado’s competitiveness, supports communities beyond the Front Range, and reinforces a commitment to job creation that is both accountable and results driven,” said the Grand Junction Chamber.
