Strategic Policy

Four Out of Five Coloradans Agree: They Want to Keep Credit Cards Rewards

May 04, 2026

State Legislation Would Threaten Popular Credit Card Rewards Programs

WASHINGTON, May 4, 2026 – New polling shows that Colorado consumers overwhelmingly value credit card rewards, particularly for travel, raising concerns about the potential impact of Senate Bill 26-134 (SB26-134) on consumers, small businesses and the state’s tourism economy. According to a survey conducted by AlphaROC, Inc.:

• 80.8 percent of Coloradans say earning bonus rewards—especially for travel—is an important benefit of using their credit cards 
• 78.5 percent say they would likely switch cards if rewards were significantly reduced or eliminated 
• 79.1 percent have a credit card that allows them to earn rewards 
• 85 percent have redeemed awards within the past two years 

“There isn’t much that 80 percent of people can agree on these days, so it’s significant that most Coloradans agree when it comes to their credit card rewards. That’s exactly why Gov. Polis should veto the terrible legislation making its way through the state legislature,” said Airlines for America President and CEO Chris Sununu. “Nationwide, 31 million airline credit cardholders rely on co-branded cards for everyday purchases like groceries, gas and other essentials, earning rewards that make family travel and vacations more accessible.”

“The economic impact is significant. Airline credit cards alone generated more than $1.2 billion of economic impact for Colorado in 2024, with more than 740,000 travelers choosing to visit the state with their hard-earned rewards. SB26-134 risks introducing unnecessary uncertainty into the entire points system, threatening these rewards,” Sununu noted.

The bill would also place new burdens on Colorado businesses. Currently, merchants benefit from a single agreement that enables them to accept credit and debit cards seamlessly. SB26-134 would eliminate this system, requiring businesses to negotiate separate agreements with hundreds of financial institutions worldwide.

Sununu added, “Colorado families and businesses depend on fast, secure and reliable payment systems that provide choice and convenience. Preserving the current system will help ensure consumers, small businesses and the state’s tourism economy continue to thrive.”