The start of the new year brings into effect numerous laws and regulations. While some are relatively obscure, others will be felt by many.
Minimum wage increase
On Jan. 1, the statewide hourly minimum wage will increase by $1.09, to $13.65 for regular employees and $10.63 for tipped employees. In Denver, the only city to set its own minimum wage, the regular rate will increase to $17.29 an hour.
Colorado’s minimum wage changes at the start of each year based on the past year’s inflation rate. The statewide increase is equal to nearly 9 percent. It’s a small silver lining amid inflation, though it also adds a new cost for employers to absorb or pass along.
Plastic bag fee
Starting Jan. 1, stores across the state will be required to charge 10 cents for every paper or plastic bag they provide to a customer. Local governments can set the fee even higher. The money collected will be split 40-60 between stores and local governments, which can spend the money on recycling and related programs.
The universal fee is the next step toward a statewide ban on single-use plastic bags that will take effect in 2024. The same law also bans single-use foam food containers starting next year.
People who show proof of being enrolled in a state or federal food assistance program are exempt from paying the fee.
Paid family leave deductions
Colorado workers will see their paychecks shrink slightly in the new year,...
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