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Bill

HB 4060

Businesses in WV must accept cash

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kathie Hess Crouse and 1 co-sponsor

West Virginia would require all businesses to accept cash payments, preserving access for unbanked citizens while potentially increasing operational costs and security concerns for merchants.

To House Finance
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4060

Legislative bill overview

HB 4060 would mandate that businesses operating in West Virginia accept cash as a form of payment. The bill appears designed to preserve cash as a viable transaction method and prevent businesses from going cashless. This requirement would apply broadly across retail and service sectors.

Why is this important

Cash usage has declined significantly as digital payments (cards, mobile payments, cryptocurrencies) have expanded, raising concerns about financial inclusion for unbanked populations, elderly citizens, and those without access to digital banking infrastructure. Mandating cash acceptance addresses potential disparities in who can participate in the economy, while also protecting consumer choice and privacy in transactions.

Potential points of contention

  • Business operational costs: Requiring cash handling increases expenses for security, transportation, counting, and employee training, potentially hitting small businesses harder than large chains with existing infrastructure
  • Safety and liability concerns: Businesses may argue that cash on hand creates security risks, theft vulnerabilities, and insurance complications that digital payments eliminate
  • Scope and enforcement: Unclear whether the bill applies to all businesses or specific categories (restaurants, retailers, online), and how violations would be enforced without creating administrative burden
  • Digital transition conflict: May conflict with growing industry trends toward efficiency and with businesses' operational preferences for faster, more traceable digital transactions

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

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