Business leaders vs. state regulators
The Colorado Chamber of Commerce’s Regulation Impact Analysis Report places the Rocky Mountain State sixth on the list of states with the highest number of business restrictions.
That report’s findings spurred Steve Swinney, the CEO of Colorado-based Kodiak Building Partners, to share an open letter on the topic. Here it is:
A Call to Action: Regulatory Reform for Colorado's Future
Letter to Colorado Employees, Partners & Fellow Business Owners
Recently, the Colorado Chamber of Commerce released a critical study on the state’s regulatory climate, revealing that Colorado is now the sixth most regulated state in the nation, with nearly 45% of our regulations deemed excessive or duplicative.
This has significant consequences for businesses, employees, and consumers:
• Job Loss: For every 10% increase in state regulations, 36,000 jobs and 9,000 firms are lost in Colorado.
• Higher Costs: Excessive regulations drive up costs for everyone, disproportionately affecting lower income families by 18% more than others.
• Stifled Growth: Our state's economy is slowing, with productivity and growth reduced by 1% to 2% annually.
These findings highlight an urgent need for action. Laws and regulations are necessary to ensure fairness, safety, and consumer protection, but when they become excessive or duplicative, they have unintended consequences that stifle innovation, growth, and opportunity.
The Colorado Chamber's newly launched Regulatory Affairs Policy Council and bold legislative proposals aim to bring transparency, clarity, and balance to our regulatory framework. These initiatives align with the values we uphold as business leaders to foster an environment where businesses can thrive, create jobs, and build stronger communities.
What Can You Do?
1. Stay Informed: Read the full report to understand the challenges and proposed solutions.
2. Join the Conversation: Share your experiences and insights with the Colorado Chamber or through industry associations.
3. Advocate for Change: Engage with policymakers to support reforms that promote economic growth while preserving necessary protections.
At Kodiak Building Partners, we believe in standing up for our industry, workforce, and communities. Together, we can help ensure Colorado's economy remains vibrant and competitive.
— Steve Swinney
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According to the Colorado COC report, the five states that rank higher than Colorado in terms of business restrictions are (in order of restrictiveness): California, New Jersey, Illinois, Texas and New York.
The report states: “Considering the negative impacts of regulations on private business and economic growth, it is noteworthy that 48% of businesses in Colorado identify regulations as one of the most significant issues they face.”
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