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Bill

HB 1138

Retail Theft Prevention Program

2026 Regular Session

Colorado establishes retail theft prevention program, potentially mandating security measures and anti-theft protocols for retailers statewide.

Governor Signed
#crimes #corrections #&enforcement
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Bill Summary · HB 1138

Legislative bill overview

HB 1138 establishes a retail theft prevention program in Colorado, likely creating frameworks, funding mechanisms, or requirements for retailers to address organized and petty theft. The bill was recently introduced and assigned to the House Judiciary Committee for review.

Why this is important

Retail theft costs businesses billions annually and affects pricing and product availability for consumers. This legislation could influence how Colorado responds to growing theft concerns, potentially affecting both retail operations and public safety approaches.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and allocation – Unclear whether costs fall on retailers, taxpayers, or both, and how funds are distributed between prevention technology and law enforcement
  • Privacy and surveillance balance – Programs may involve customer tracking, facial recognition, or data collection that raises civil liberties concerns
  • Small vs. large retailer impact – Requirements could disproportionately burden small independent stores versus large chains with existing security budgets
  • Effectiveness and enforcement – Whether prevention measures address root causes (poverty, addiction) or only symptoms, and how enforcement disparities might develop
  • Definition of "retail theft" – Ambiguity around what's covered could create unintended consequences for customers or retailers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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