A heated debate took place in the Colorado State Capitol on Monday night as lawmakers and community members discussed the proposed House Bill 25-1208. This legislation aims to change the state’s rules around minimum wage for tipped workers in an effort to provide financial relief to struggling restaurants. Supporters argue that the bill would save more restaurants from closing and provide more equitable pay to “back of house” workers. However, critics claim it would cost thousands of tipped workers thousands of dollars and suggest alternative solutions like subsidizing rising rent or food costs.
The bill as introduced would have required a $11.79 tipped minimum wage statewide, but an amendment proposed on Monday would set a tipped minimum wage at roughly 65% of the minimum wage in each municipality. Restaurant owners in support of the bill shared their struggles with increasing wages and expenses, while workers and union members opposed it, arguing that it targets the most vulnerable group.
The debate has escalated to negative online reviews and attacks on businesses that testified in favor of the bill. Denver Mayor Mike Johnston’s office supports the bill, while several city council members are against it. The bill is seen as a crucial piece of legislation that could impact the future of restaurants in Colorado and the livelihood of tipped workers.
