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Bill

HB 6063

AN ACT AUTHORIZING BUSINESSES TO CHARGE CONSUMERS FOR THE ACTUAL COST OF CREDIT CARD FEES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tom Delnicki

Bill permits Connecticut businesses to charge customers credit card processing fees at checkout instead of absorbing costs or building them into prices.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON General Law
#business #consumerprotection #creditcards #fees
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 6063

Legislative bill overview

HB 6063 would allow Connecticut businesses to pass the actual cost of credit card processing fees directly to consumers at the point of sale. Currently, Connecticut law prohibits surcharging for credit card use, though businesses can offer cash discounts. This bill would legalize what is known as "credit card surcharging" by removing restrictions on the practice.

Why is this important

Credit card processing fees typically range from 2-3% of transaction value and represent a significant business expense, especially for small retailers and service providers. This bill affects consumer purchasing power and transparency—whether customers see these fees hidden in prices for everyone or charged only to credit card users—and has implications for credit card competition and merchant profitability.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer impact: Low-income consumers and those without cash alternatives may face higher costs, while cash-paying customers benefit from price transparency that currently subsidizes credit card users
  • Price transparency concerns: Opponents argue surcharges are deceptive if not clearly disclosed beforehand, and may complicate pricing displays and comparisons
  • Credit card competition: Card networks (Visa, Mastercard) have contractual restrictions on surcharges; federal law permits state surcharging, but this creates complex compliance questions for businesses operating multi-state
  • Small business burden: While some merchants support surcharging relief, implementation requires payment system updates and customer education

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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