In the last ten years, the minimum wage for tipped workers in Denver has more than tripled and the resulting increase in labor cost has played a major factor in the closure of many local restaurants. Now, state lawmakers are considering a bill that would roll back those increases.
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Groups backing the bill include the Colorado Chamber of Commerce, the Hispanic Restaurant Association, EatDenver, the Tavern League, the Downtown Denver Partnership and the Downtown Boulder Partnership.
“Restaurants are a cornerstone of Colorado’s economy and local communities, but many are struggling under the weight of rising labor costs and inflation,” said Loren Furman, president and CEO of the Colorado Chamber of Commerce, in a statement on February 14. “This legislation provides a balanced solution, giving restaurants the flexibility to adapt to local wage increases while continuing to offer competitive wages to all employees.”
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