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Bill

HB 3256

Requires retail businesses to accept cash as payment

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Durnell and 1 co-sponsor

Missouri requires all retail businesses to accept cash payments, ensuring financial inclusion for unbanked consumers and preventing cashless-only transaction policies.

HCS Reported Do Pass (H) - AYES: 5 NOES: 1 PRESENT: 0
#businessandcommerce #merchandisingpractices
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Bill Summary · HB 3256

Legislative bill overview

HB 3256 mandates that retail businesses in Missouri accept cash as a form of payment for goods and services. The bill prevents retailers from implementing cashless-only payment systems and requires them to maintain the ability to process physical currency transactions.

Why is this important

This addresses growing concerns about financial exclusion, as unbanked and underbanked populations rely on cash transactions. It also protects consumer choice and accessibility for citizens who cannot or prefer not to use digital payment methods, while ensuring elderly and rural populations maintain transaction options.

Potential points of contention

  • Business operational costs: Retailers argue that accepting cash increases security risks, requires staffing for cash handling, and adds administrative burden compared to digital-only systems
  • Economic modernization vs. accessibility: Tech-forward businesses contend that cashless systems improve efficiency and hygiene, while consumer advocates counter that mandatory cash acceptance prevents discriminatory exclusion
  • Enforcement mechanisms: The bill's enforcement procedures, penalties for non-compliance, and how small businesses versus large chains are treated remain unclear and could create compliance challenges

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

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