DENVER (March 24, 2026) – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the state’s leading small business advocacy organization, announced its strong support for HB 1138, a bill that would address organized retail theft in Colorado. The bill establishes a task force, advisory board, and grant program to help law enforcement investigate and prosecute organized retail theft.

In a statement, NFIB State Director Michael Smith applauded the effort.

“Nearly every small business owner has experienced retail theft. Not only does theft jeopardize the safety of small business owners, their employees, and their customers, but it also threatens our state’s economy. This bill takes several important steps to improve coordination among law enforcement, so they are better equipped to investigate and prosecute these crimes.”