Although there has been no movement on either cashless ban bills in the House, work is being done to create a companion bill in the Senate. At the same time, some opposition to these efforts is emerging from a few of the electronics payments special interests. With the new bill in Wisconsin having been sponsored by Republicans, there is hope that the effort is getting some solid bipartisan traction.

Philadelphia was the first major city to pass a ban on cashless retail. However, we are seeing attempts to weaken the ordinance during the rulemaking process. The city wants to exempt itself from the ordinance, as well as vending machines, and different types of retailers. A letter was filed to request a public hearing, which was to have taken place last Friday. Written testimony was also submitted on behalf of ATMIA.

Efforts will continue to gather letters of support, acquire new sponsors, and collect data on the benefits of keeping cash as a payment option for all retail establishments.

If you are willing to reach out to your own members of Congress, please contact David Tente.