Senate passes bill banning payment-card swipe fees after close floor vote

The Colorado Senate voted 18-17 on May 1 to pass Senate Bill 134, a measure that would restrict imposition of certain fees by payment-card networks. The bill was read on the floor and placed for third reading before a heated exchange about whether the law would materially lower consumer costs.

Senator Linstead moved the bill for final passage and floor debate followed. Senator Donna Gonzalez, a floor debater and sponsor-supporter of the measure, described the bill as aimed at protecting small businesses from added processing costs, saying, “Taking calls from restaurant owners desperate for relief, hoping this bill would allow them to keep their doors open for another month.” She framed the legislation as a response to intensive lobbying by Visa, Mastercard and other payment companies.

Opponents warned of potential litigation and uncertain consumer benefit. During the recorded roll call the presiding officer asked for no votes and the clerk listed the senators recorded as voting no. The final tally was 18 ayes, 17 noes, 0 absent, and 0 excused; the chair announced that Senate Bill 134 was passed.

The bill's text, as read on the floor, targets the imposition of fees by payment-card networks; the clerk read the bill title and sponsors during third-reading procedures. Supporters emphasized relief for small businesses that face swipe fees on sales transactions; opponents cautioned about legal challenges and whether savings would reach consumers. The Senate moved on to consent calendar items after the vote.

Next steps: The enrolled bill will be transmitted per regular legislative procedure. No additional committee referral was recorded on the floor following the final passage vote.