Heads up, consumers: A new law taking effect in New York State over the weekend will require businesses to accept cash payments from customers.<\/p>\n
The new law, which took effect on Saturday, makes it illegal for a New York food store or retail establishment to refuse payment in cash for goods or services.<\/p>\n
Under the new law, consumers cannot be forced to pay by credit card or use an alternative cashless transaction method to complete their purchase. Businesses also cannot charge consumers a higher price should they choose to pay in cash.<\/p>\n
With the new law in place, New York Attorney General Letitia James is reminding consumers of their rights.<\/p>\n
“New Yorkers have a right to service no matter how they choose to pay,” said James in a press release on Friday.<\/p>\n
“Businesses cannot deny New Yorkers access to necessities like food and clothing by refusing to take cash, or charging shoppers more for paying in cash. I will not hesitate to enforce this law to protect consumers across our state.”<\/p>\n
Stores that violate the new law could face civil fines of up to $1,000 for the first offense and $1,500 for repeat offenses.<\/p>\n
The new statewide law mirrors a similar New York City law<\/a> that has been in effect since 2020.<\/p>\n You can read more about the new law on the New York State Attorney General website<\/a>.<\/p>\n ———- Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News<\/p>\n
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