Written by Colorado Green NOW

Why Advocacy Matters More Than Ever: 2025 Legislative Update from ALCC

As Colorado’s 2025 legislative session enters its final month, the Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado (ALCC) and our GreenCO partners are more engaged than ever at the State Capitol. With over 610 bills introduced this year and the General Assembly facing a tight $1 billion budget shortfall, every piece of legislation—especially those with fiscal implications—is under intense scrutiny. But through it all, one thing is clear: Colorado continues to be a bellwether for the nation when it comes to environmental, labor, and land use legislation that directly affects our industry.

That’s why legislative advocacy isn’t optional—it’s critical to the future of your business.

The policies being debated in Denver are being watched closely by national organizations, including the Irrigation Association, the National Association of Landscape Professionals, and others. What happens in Colorado often shapes the regulatory landscape for the rest of the country. As such, ALCC’s proactive involvement ensures that the voice of the green industry is heard loud and clear—not only to influence outcomes in our state but to serve as a model for smart, pragmatic advocacy nationwide.

Key Legislative Issues in 2025

ALCC and GreenCO are currently tracking more than 30 bills. Below are some of the major wins, challenges, and ongoing efforts that demonstrate the breadth and importance of our advocacy work:

• Backflow Prevention Victory (HB25-1077)
  We successfully supported legislation signed into law that removes unnecessary licensure requirements for those inspecting, testing, and repairing backflow prevention devices. This is a direct rollback of last year’s harmful law, thanks to your engagement and support.
• Turf Limitations in New Residential Development (HB25-1113)
  We’ve worked closely with sponsors to amend this bill, limiting its impact and protecting landscape design flexibility. The bill is near final passage, with many of our concerns addressed.
• Protecting the Industry from Overreach: Extreme Heat Standards (HB24-1286)
  ALCC joined a large coalition to defeat a well-intentioned but unworkable bill regulating work during extreme heat. While the sponsors plan to revisit it next year, we’re staying at the table to shape smarter, workable policy.
• Smart Irrigation Equipment Regulation (HB23-1161 Implementation)
  ALCC is actively engaged with CDPHE to address significant problems with the rollout of last year’s law regulating smart controllers and spray bodies. We may pursue new legislation to correct its unintended consequences.
• Workforce and Housing Policy Engagement (HB25-1001, HB25-1272, SB25-185)
  From wage and hour laws to construction defect reform, we’re deeply involved in shaping policies that affect business operations, labor access, and housing supply—all crucial to a healthy landscape industry.

Advocacy is a Year-Round Job

Even when the legislative session ends, our work continues. This interim, we’ll be participating in rule-making sessions, meeting with regulators, and laying the groundwork for 2026. From ensuring our industry is part of environmental planning efforts through the Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC) to pushing back on burdensome pesticide and emissions regulations, our advocacy never stops.

Why Your Voice Matters

Our progress at the Capitol is only possible because of members like you who show up, speak out, and support this work. Whether it’s testifying at the legislature, responding to action alerts, or attending advocacy meetings, your engagement directly influences the success of our industry.

When you support ALCC, you’re not just investing in networking or education—you’re investing in the long-term protection and prosperity of your business.

Final Thoughts

Colorado’s green industry is a leader, not just in landscape excellence, but in shaping policy for the future. ALCC is proud to be your voice at the Capitol—and with your continued involvement, we’ll keep winning the fights that matter most.

Stay informed. Stay engaged. Together, we make real, lasting change.