Classic big-government arrogance on full display. Democrats in Colorado just proved once again they have zero understanding of how the real economy works: you can’t punish employers for hiring people and expect jobs, stores, and growth to magically appear. This $2,300-per-head penalty isn’t “fairness” — it’s a job-killing, price-gouging mandate that will be passed straight to consumers and workers while productive businesses flee to red states that actually welcome them.

The free market isn’t a villain to be taxed into submission; it’s the engine that creates opportunity. When government treats employers like ATMs, families pay the price at the register and in the unemployment line. Republicans who voted no get it — the rest of the legislature is playing class-warfare games while Colorado’s economy bleeds. If this becomes law, don’t be shocked when “big box” signs turn into “For Lease” signs and the “help wanted” posters disappear. Time for voters to hold these economic illiterates accountable at the ballot box. Freedom and prosperity over feel-good regulations every single time.