03/26/2026
Policy decisions matter most when they impact real people in real communities. I’ve been following HB26-1033, commonly known as a bipartisan bill to expand the Colorado Cottage Foods Act. This legislation represents something simple and powerful: the ability for small, home-based producers to participate in the economy safely and responsibly.
Recently, I watched local leadership shift from a position of “support” to “monitor” after concerns were raised about potential unfunded enforcement responsibilities. That concern is valid, but it’s also solvable. We should not be forced to choose between supporting small businesses and addressing implementation challenges. If enforcement is the issue, then let’s brainstorm and amend the bill to assign responsibility to the state level or provide an opt-out for local small governments. Over-regulation is not the answer.
The Cottage Foods Act already includes safeguards:
✔ Required food safety training
✔ Restrictions to non-potentially hazardous foods
✔ Labeling transparency
In rural communities like mine, cottage food production supports caregivers, families, and individuals building something from the ground up. It’s not about large-scale operations; it’s about access, resilience, community, and local economic strength.
Good policy should reflect both public health and real-world application. Help me get the word out to support HB26-1033 and get the implementation right. A support and amend position is appropriate.
