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B 26-0394

Entertainment Establishment Employee Safety Extension Emergency Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Christina Henderson

The act allows certain late-night retail and restaurant businesses to refuse cash payments, enhancing employee safety by reducing theft and violence risks.

Act A26-0176 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 012391, Expires on Jan 22, 2026
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Bill Summary · B 26-0394

Summary of the Entertainment Establishment Employee Safety Extension Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 (B 26-0394)

Overview

The Entertainment Establishment Employee Safety Extension Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 (B 26-0394) was introduced on October 6, 2025, and aims to amend the District of Columbia Official Code to enhance safety measures for employees in entertainment establishments. The act was signed into law as Act A26-0176 on October 24, 2025, and is set to expire on January 22, 2026.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of this legislation is to allow certain retail establishments and restaurants to refuse cash payments as a means of enhancing employee safety. This measure is particularly relevant in the context of late-night operations, where cash transactions can pose security risks.

Key Provisions

The act amends Section 28-5404 of the District of Columbia Official Code with the following key changes:

  1. Cash Payment Refusal:

    • Retail establishments with a valid on-premises Class C or Class D retailer license, as well as certain restaurants, are permitted to refuse cash payments.
    • Establishments must provide written, conspicuous notice to the public indicating that cash payments are not accepted. This notice must be displayed on the door of the establishment or on the menu.

  2. Eligibility Criteria:

    • The act specifies that eligible restaurants must operate:
      • 24 hours a day, or
      • At 3:00 AM at least 2 days a week.

Applicability

The provisions of this act became applicable on October 18, 2025.

Fiscal Impact

The Council has adopted the fiscal impact statement from the Budget Director, which outlines the financial implications of the act as required by the General Legislative Procedures Act of 1975.

Effective Date and Expiration

  • The act took effect following the Mayor's approval and will remain in effect for 90 days as per the emergency act provisions outlined in the District of Columbia Home Rule Act.
  • The act is set to expire on January 22, 2026, unless further legislative action is taken.

Legislative Actions

  • October 6, 2025: Bill introduced by Councilmember Christina Henderson.
  • October 7, 2025: Final reading and retained by the Council.
  • October 15, 2025: Transmitted to the Mayor, with a response due by October 29, 2025.
  • October 24, 2025: Signed by the Mayor and enacted as Act A26-0176.
  • November 7, 2025: Published in the DC Register, Vol 72, Page 012391.

Impact

This legislation is expected to primarily affect employees working in retail and restaurant sectors in the District of Columbia, particularly those in establishments that operate during late hours. By allowing these businesses to refuse cash payments, the act aims to reduce the risk of theft and violence, thereby enhancing overall employee safety.

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

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