ALBANY, N.Y. – Gov. Kathy Hochul recently signed into law legislation co-sponsored by Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, D-119, officially prohibiting businesses’ refusal of cash payments at all retail and food service establishments in New York State.
The new law, now Chapter 584 of the Laws of 2025, prohibits all retailers operating a business in which physical and in-person transactions occur from refusing to accept payments in cash. This long-awaited and much needed consumer protection act additionally prevents the state’s businesses from levying additional fees or charges on cash payments, similar to those now seen with credit or debit card purchases.
The law goes into effect in March and makes New York the fifth state to adopt cash protection measures. It is intended to establish equity in purchasing for those who are unbanked, lack financial stability, lack reliable access to credit cards or bank accounts, and seniors who may struggle with in-person mobile and online kiosk purchasing technologies.
“As we continue work to revitalize and strengthen our Mohawk Valley’s economy, we need policies that lift up everyone, not just those with the best credit scores. This bill is about fairness, inclusion, and ensuring that our economic recovery leaves no neighbor behind,” Buttenschon said.
Key provisions of the new law include:
– mandated acceptance of cash payments for in-person transactions at no additional cost.
– an exception for bills above $20, stores may refuse larger bills.
– an exemption for purchases or payments made by phone, mail or internet transactions.
“The Mohawk Valley has always been a place where hard work and determination matter more than your zip code or bank balance,” Buttenschon said. “Today’s signing protects that tradition and ensures no business can shut out the very neighbors who have kept their doors open through decades of economic change and modernization.”