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- calendar_today October 20, 2026
Introduction
Colorado's Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) has released a new report calling for the repeal of a 71-year-old law that prohibits vehicle sales on Sundays. The recommendation follows significant changes in the automotive industry, sparking renewed debate among dealerships and regulatory officials ahead of the law's scheduled review in 2027.
History of the Sunday Vehicle Sale Ban
The Sunday vehicle sale ban, established in the 1940s and codified as C.R.S. 44-20-302, makes it a misdemeanor crime to sell, barter, or exchange any motor vehicle on Sundays. This law applies not just to dealerships but to any individual, firm, or corporation, even covering private transactions conducted in residences. Violators face fines ranging from $75 to $1,000, possible jail time of up to six months, and suspension or revocation of a dealership’s business license.
The Case for Repeal from Regulatory Agencies
DORA regulators have now recommended that lawmakers sunset the prohibition as part of the law's upcoming 10-year review in 2027. In their report, DORA noted that most dealerships were originally family-owned, and the intent of the ban was to guarantee employees at least one day off each week for rest or religious observance. However, DORA pointed out that the automotive market has shifted dramatically, with larger corporate ownership and the rise of online car sales. Despite internet sales, the law currently still prohibits even online vehicle transactions on Sundays.
According to DORA, the ban is now “overly restrictive” and limits both consumer access and choice. The agency further emphasized that repealing the ban would not require dealerships to open on Sundays; instead, it would merely give them the option, making Sunday opening a business decision rather than a legal issue. DORA concluded, “At the end of the day, there is no valid reason for the state to dictate what should be a business decision.”
Dealership Reactions and Industry Concerns
The proposed repeal has drawn mixed reactions from those in the automotive industry. Christofer Martinez, of New Wave Automotive, acknowledged that Sunday operations could potentially boost revenue but also present scheduling difficulties. "The dealership only pays by commissions, not by hours, you know, so we have to figure out how to get more people, more employees coming to work on Sundays," Martinez said.
Other dealers, like veteran salesman Warren Barber, regard Sunday closures as essential time off for employees to spend with their families. "What’s more important to me, my time with my family," Barber stated, sharing a sentiment echoed by many in the industry.
Opposition from the Auto Dealers Association
The Colorado Auto Dealers Association (CADA) has expressed firm opposition to repealing the Sunday sales ban, arguing that it serves as both an employee and consumer benefit. CADA warns that Sunday operations could significantly increase costs for dealerships, which would likely be reflected in higher vehicle prices. "Sunday closure is an employee benefit and consumer benefit that we have in common with 13 other states. After almost 70 years of effectiveness, its repeal would be an expensive and unsuccessful experiment," said a statement from CADA.
Looking Ahead: Legislative Review in 2027
As the sunset review approaches in 2027, Colorado lawmakers will be tasked with weighing these regulatory, business, and consumer concerns. DORA's recommendation frames the debate around evolving industry models and changing public needs, setting the stage for a significant policy decision regarding business Sunday sales, vehicle sale prohibition, and the future of Colorado’s automotive sale regulations.
Source: kdvr.com.
