A bill aimed at protecting cash transactions is heading to the Arizona Senate for consideration.
On Tuesday, the Arizona House of Representatives passed HB2683, sponsored by State Rep. Joseph Chaplik that ensures that businesses with a physical presence in Arizona must accept cash for transactions up to $100.
The bill passed the House Commerce Committee with unanimous support.
“Legal tender is exactly that—it must be accepted,” said Chaplik. “Millions of Americans, including the most financially vulnerable rely on cash for their daily transactions. No one should be denied the ability to buy groceries, medicine, or other essentials simply because they choose or need to use cash.”
HB2683 prohibits businesses from imposing extra fees for cash payments and establishes civil penalties for violations. The bill does not apply to online sales or private contracts but ensures that brick-and-mortar businesses cannot deny customers the ability to use U.S. currency.
“Not everyone has a credit card or a bank account,” added Chaplik. “This bill protects seniors, working-class families, and those who prefer the privacy of cash transactions. It stops businesses from turning away customers who are simply trying to pay with their own hard-earned money.”
Similar laws are already enacted in Colorado, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.