BREAKING NEWS: Message from David Tente, Executive Director USA & Americas | Safe Access to Cash Act Passes U.S. Senate

A Major Step Forward in the Fight Against ATM Crime

The ATM Industry Association is pleased to share an important advocacy update: the bipartisan Safe Access to Cash Act (S. 3798) has passed the U.S. Senate by voice vote. The legislation now moves to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

Introduced by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and cosponsored by Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) and Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), the Safe Access to Cash Act would update the Federal Bank Robbery Act of 1934 to extend federal penalties to robberies involving standalone and off-site ATMs, including those located at retail, convenience and other nonbank locations.

The legislation addresses a longstanding gap in federal law by extending federal protections and penalties to ATMs located outside traditional bank premises.

ATMIA Applauds Senate Action

“After 17 amendments to the 1934 Bank Robbery Act, the ATM industry is very pleased to see a big step toward including all ATMs in this important law. We are hopeful that stiff Federal penalties will help reduce the continuing increase in ATM crime.”

— David Tente, ATMIA

“By updating the outdated framework of the 1934 Federal Bank Robbery Act, this bipartisan legislation closes a critical loophole exploited by organized criminal rings targeting off-site and independent ATMs. Cash remains an absolute lifeline for millions of Americans, and safeguarding its distribution network is paramount. On behalf of the ATM Industry Association, we applaud the Senate's decisive leadership and urge the U.S. House of Representatives to act swiftly to protect small businesses, secure our cash supply chain, and bring federal penalties into the 21st century.”

— Lonnie Talbert, ATMIA

A Thank You to Our Members


This progress is also a testament to the power of ATMIA members engaging in advocacy. Thank you to all of the members who have participated in the annual ATMIA Fly-In and taken the time to meet with lawmakers and share the industry's perspective on ATM crime and the importance of protecting access to cash.

Your voices, your advocacy and your willingness to show up in Washington have helped keep this issue in front of policymakers and build momentum for this important legislation. We are grateful for your continued engagement and support of ATMIA's advocacy efforts.

The Next Step: The U.S. House

With Senate passage secured, the bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives. ATMIA will continue advocating for action to strengthen federal protections for ATMs, the businesses and employees who service them, and the communities that rely on cash.

This is an important milestone—but the work is not finished.

ATMIA will keep members informed as the Safe Access to Cash Act moves through the legislative process.

Thank you for being part of ATMIA's advocacy community and for helping us move this important issue forward.