With such a strong push to use cashless options, it’s important to keep in mind the fallout for those who prefer to use cash for a wide variety of reasons, and those ineligible for credit, or who otherwise find cashless payment providers unwilling to serve them. If a business refuses cash, it is refusing to serve a large number of people simply based on their payment choice.
Numerous states have already enacted laws banning businesses from going cashless, and more are currently considering legislation. In New York, VICE reports, thousand-dollar fines are being handed out to businesses the first time they’re caught refusing cash, rising to $1,500 for a second offence. Members of Congress are also discussing the possibility of a national ban on cashless businesses. For some, VICE observes, the issue is personal.
