The New York State Legislature has passed legislation introduced by Assembly Member Catalina Cruz and State Sen. James Sanders prohibiting food stores and retail establishments from declining cash payments.
The legislation, which aims to make sure that cash remains a valid form of payment in New York State, passed both houses of the state legislature at the end of May.
Sanders who represents Queens neighborhoods in South Jamaica and Far Rockaway. , said the bill reaffirms that access to the marketplace remains a “fundamental right” and not a “luxury reserved for the digitally connected.”
He said there are many New Yorkers who rely on cash as their primary method of payment and said the legislation ensures that low-income, elderly and unbanked individuals can continue to access essential goods and services in New York State at a time when several businesses are shifting toward digital payment methods.
“Cash is still king for many New Yorkers who live paycheck to paycheck or who simply don’t have access to credit or banking services,” Sanders said in a statement. “No one should be denied a sandwich, a bottle of water, or a loaf of bread because they don’t have a debit card. This bill is about fairness and basic dignity.”
Cruz, who represents Corona, Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, meanwhile, said cashless stores “shut out” seniors, immigrants and working-class New Yorkers.
“Our bill makes it clear: retailers and food stores can’t refuse cash—because access to essentials shouldn’t depend on a credit card,” Cruz said in a statement.
State Sen. Joseph P. Addabbo, a co-sponsor of the legislation in the State Senate, said lawmakers “must not forget” those who rely on cash as their primary method of payment.
“This bill is about fairness and inclusion. By prohibiting businesses from refusing cash, we ensure that the purchasing of goods and services is open and accessible to all,” Addabbo said in a statement.
State Sen. Lea Webb, who represents New York’s 52nd district in Binghampton and co-sponsored the legislation in the Senate, said the bill promotes fairness and access at checkout lines across the state.
“No one should be turned away from buying food or necessities simply because they pay in cash,” Webb said in a statement. “This bill protects everyday consumers, especially seniors, low-income individuals, and the unbanked, by ensuring that cash remains a legal and accepted form of payment.”
Bruce Wayne Renard, executive director of non-profit the National ATM Council, Inc., said the bill helps to preserve the use of US currency in New York State.
“Cash remains essential in emergencies and for ensuring privacy and protection against digital threats,” Wayne Renard said.
The legislation, which now goes to Gov. Kathy Hochul to be signed into law, introduces civil penalties of up to $1,000 for stores that fail to accept cash payments. Fines rise to up to $1,500 for each succeeding violation.
However, the legislation allows stores to refuse to take cash payments for bills above $20.
