Ohio lawmakers are weighing a proposal that would require businesses and government offices to accept cash for purchases of up to $500. The Currency Access to Spend Here (CASH) Act, introduced by state Rep. David Thomas, aims to ensure that residents can continue using physical currency even as more retailers move toward digital and card-only transactions.
“It’s simple, cash is the basis for business in America. Our taxpayers should always have the ability to use cash in their daily lives,” Thomas said in support of House Bill 554. The measure would also ban businesses from charging higher prices to customers who pay with cash instead of using other forms of payment.
Thomas said he regularly hears from Ohioans who either prefer cash or feel uneasy about digital payments. “I hear from residents who may not trust virtual payment options or just prefer to use physical cash,” he added. “This bill balances the needs of government and business to be efficient with the ability to still rely on physical currency.”
Retailers Could See Checkout Changes
Major retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Costco could face adjustments under the proposed law. Many large chains have shifted to self-checkout stations that do not accept cash, especially in high-volume locations. If the bill passes, each business would be required to provide at least one point-of-sale that accommodates cash, whether staffed or automated.
The legislation does not mandate additional hiring, stating that the cash-accepting point-of-sale may be “automated or operated by a person.” Still, the requirement could prompt retailers to rethink their current checkout layouts and self-service strategies.
The push comes as more consumers rely on digital payments, while a portion of the population continues to prefer cash for convenience, privacy, or budgeting reasons.
Bill Aligns With Federal Cash Efforts
Thomas’ proposal mirrors a federal effort known as the Payment Choice Act of 2025, which was introduced by Sen. John Fetterman and Sen. Kevan Cramer. Their bill similarly seeks to ensure that businesses accept cash and prohibits surcharges on cash transactions.
Supporters argue that without such protections, the rise of card-only systems could leave some Americans unable to make basic purchases. As Ohio considers its own version of the policy, lawmakers say the goal is to balance modernization with accessibility.
