When State Rep. Prince Chestnut, D-Selma, in 2024, introduced a bill that would mandate Alabama retail outlets take cash, the House Commerce and Small Business Committee shut down the idea in a 6-3 vote.

That failed effort means Alabama has not joined the ranks of states enacting laws against establishments going cashless.

With no federal cashless ban, states are enacting their own rules. Massachusetts has had a statewide ban since 1978 . New Jersey made a similar move in 2019. Ten states have since joined.

The latest is New York. Last week, New York Governor Kathleen Hochul signed a bill that made it illegal for retailers to refuse cash payments.

“Requiring cash acceptance ensures these individuals—who often come from low-income American households—can access essential goods

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