Colorado's tipped wage bill punts decision to locals

Colorado's legislative battle over tipped wages concluded with the state deferring decisions to local governments regarding the $3. 02 tip credit. Governor Jared Polis signed the Restaurant Relief Act, receiving crucial backing from the Colorado Restaurant Association amidst a crisis where nearly 200 restaurants closed last year. The legislation aims to provide relief for struggling eateries but faced strong opposition from labor unions concerned about potential pay cuts for workers. Polis described the law as a means for restaurants to thrive, urging cities with higher minimum wages to take action on the tip credit.

Despite the bill's passage, local governments, particularly in Denver and Boulder, are not expected to act quickly due to internal divisions. The Colorado Restaurant Association heralded the law as a significant victory for independent restaurants. The backdrop of rising living costs in the Denver metro area adds complexity to the ongoing debate. As the situation unfolds, the local implications for restaurant workers and owners remain uncertain.