How the “Big Beautiful Bill” Could Affect Colorado Springs Restaurants — And How to Stay Financially Savvy

Big legislative changes are on the horizon — and if you own a restaurant in Colorado Springs, you’ll want to pay attention. The recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill” (officially HB24-1448) is making waves across Colorado. It introduces changes to how government agencies collect fees and may have long-term implications for local businesses — especially in hospitality.

Let’s take a closer look at what this bill could mean for your restaurant, what you can do to stay ahead, and how partnering with a local professional like Barmann Bookkeeping can help you navigate it with ease.

What Is the “Big Beautiful Bill” (HB24-1448)?

Passed by the Colorado Legislature in June 2024, HB24-1448 proposes a reorganization of how state and local governments assess and collect fees and service charges. Often dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill” by state lawmakers, it consolidates funding mechanisms into a more transparent, state-controlled system — replacing a patchwork of local taxes and regulatory fees.

While the bill is focused on improving efficiency and transparency in public budgeting, it introduces new collection systems and fee structures that directly impact businesses at the city and county levels.

For restaurants and bars, potential changes include:

• Increased costs for local health inspections, liquor licenses, and occupational permits

• Standardized fee schedules managed at the state level rather than locally

• New compliance requirements and possible annual reporting obligations

While many specifics are still in development and rollout won’t be immediate, now is the time for Colorado Springs business owners to prepare — especially those in the fast-paced, high-overhead restaurant industry.

How It Affects Colorado Springs Businesses

The City of Colorado Springs and El Paso County will each implement parts of the bill differently, and this could impact how businesses handle:

• Permit renewals and food service licenses (Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment)

• Sales and use tax remittance (City of Colorado Springs Sales Tax Info)

• Occupational privilege tax obligations (El Paso County Business Licensing)

With tourism and foot traffic at their peak during July, local restaurants can't afford administrative setbacks or overlooked fees that may now increase under new frameworks.

Financial Tips for Restaurant Owners During This Transition

Navigating a shift in regulations doesn’t have to derail your summer season. Here’s how to stay on solid financial footing:

✅ 1. Audit Your Overhead

Now is a smart time to re-evaluate rent, labor, vendor contracts, and fixed costs. Even small increases in license or service fees can strain margins if you’re already operating lean.

✅ 2. Revisit Your Licensing and Renewal Dates

Check your city and county websites to stay informed on when your next health inspections, liquor license renewals, or zoning fees are due. The Pikes Peak Regional Building Department is a good resource if your restaurant has structural elements under review.

✅ 3. Prepare for More State-Level Oversight

The bill aims to move fee setting and enforcement under broader state control, so it’s important to track changes through the Colorado Secretary of State's Office or consult with a bookkeeping professional who does it for you.

✅ 4. Automate and Categorize Your Finances

Make sure your bookkeeping system is structured to track:

• State vs. local taxes

• Tipped vs. hourly payroll

• COGS (cost of goods sold) for food, beverage, and alcohol

• Seasonal cash flow changes

Why Work With a Local Hospitality Bookkeeper?

At Barmann Bookkeeping, I specialize in helping restaurant and hospitality clients across Colorado Springs stay compliant, organized, and financially strong — even in the face of legislative changes.

Whether you run a food truck downtown, a café in Manitou Springs, or a restaurant near Garden of the Gods, I offer:

• Clear monthly financial reports and dashboards

• Sales tax and liquor tax prep

• Payroll and employee time tracking

• Vendor management and bill pay

• End-of-year reporting and quarterly planning

I live and work in Colorado Springs — so I know the local regulations and resources inside and out.

Local Resources for Restaurant Owners in Colorado Springs:

• Colorado Restaurant Association – Pikes Peak Chapter

• City of Colorado Springs – Business Licensing

• Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center

• Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC – Hospitality Resources

• Downtown Partnership of Colorado Springs – Business Resources

Get Help Before the Changes Hit

You don’t have to guess how the “Big Beautiful Bill” will impact your operations. Partner with a local expert who understands the fine print, the local landscape, and the unique cash flow needs of the restaurant industry.

👉 Schedule a free consultation with Barmann Bookkeeping and let’s create a custom financial strategy for your hospitality business — before the new rules go into effect.

Sources Referenced:

• Colorado House Bill 24-1448 (Official State Bill Summary)

• City of Colorado Springs Sales Tax Info

• Pikes Peak Regional Building Department

• Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment

• Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC

• Colorado Restaurant Association – Pikes Peak Chapter

Disclaimer:

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Legislative details and fee structures may change, and business owners are encouraged to consult with a licensed attorney, accountant, or the appropriate government agency for specific guidance.