A large group of workers and union activists gathered at the Colorado State Capitol on Tuesday to push for changes to the state’s labor laws, which they argue are outdated and unfair. The demonstration was organized by Colorado Worker Rights United, a new coalition of labor activists, and progressive lawmakers, who plan to introduce the Worker Protection Act. The proposed legislation seeks to expand workers’ rights in Colorado.
One of the supporters, Liza Nielsen, a Starbucks shift supervisor, shared her experience of organizing a union three years ago to secure better pay and benefits. Nielsen pointed out that Colorado’s labor laws make the process difficult, as the state requires two votes to form a union, whereas most states only require one.
The first vote forms the union with a simple majority, while the second vote addresses union security, ensuring workers who benefit from the union’s work contribute to representation costs without being forced to join or pay dues. Nielsen and other workers believe this second vote is an unnecessary barrier to union formation.
Senator Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez expressed frustration with the existing system, calling it a restriction on workers’ rights. Supporters of the Worker Protection Act believe eliminating the second vote requirement would make it easier for workers to organize and reduce the retaliation they face, including cuts to hours, illegal firings, and surveillance by employers.
Sophie Mariam, a labor policy analyst with the Colorado Fiscal Institute, emphasized the broader economic benefits of unions, noting that stronger unions help improve wages, benefits, and working conditions. She argued that Colorado’s anti-union policies hurt the economy by suppressing workers’ rights, leading to lower job quality across the state.
However, not everyone is in favor of the proposed changes. Loren Furman, president of the Colorado Chamber of Commerce, defended the state’s current labor laws, saying they strike a fair balance between supporting workers and maintaining a healthy economic climate for businesses. She expressed concern that the Worker Protection Act could lead to higher costs and potentially harm Colorado’s business competitiveness.