Gas station owners and other retailers who sell fuel in Colorado could be whacked with a $20,000 fine if they don’t include labels warning consumers that by using the product they are harming the global climate, according to a bill proposed by state Democrats.
One of the sponsors of the bill, State Representative Junie Joseph, told National Review on Tuesday that encouraging Coloradans to bike or walk more is important because “everybody knows” burning fossil fuels contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. However, she struggled to explain then why it was imperative for the state to warn gas-buyers about a problem that she acknowledges they’re likely already aware of.
The bill, HB 25-1277, would require that by July 1, 2026, all Colorado gas pumps and retail containers include a label or sticker in at least 24-point font that reads, “Warning: Use of this product releases air pollutants and greenhouse gases, known by the state of Colorado to be linked to significant health impacts and global heating.” The labels would have to be “affixed in a conspicuous location” and “maintained in excellent condition,” the bill states.
Failure to include the label would be considered a deceptive trade practice under the Colorado Consumer Protection Act, punishable by a civil penalty of up to $20,000, with the possibility of additional penalties for subsequent violations, according to a bill analysis.
“Providing consumers with information about the impact of fossil fuel consumption directly at the point of purchase may encourage consumers to reduce their consumption and to use alternative products when appropriate,” according to the bill, first reported on by the Denver Gazette.
