Ohio’s CASH Act: What the New Cash-Access Requirement Means for Retailers and Shoppers

24th Nov 2025
Ohio’s CASH Act: What the New Cash-Access Requirement Means for Retailers and Shoppers Ohio’s proposed CASH Act would require businesses and government offices to offer at least one point of sale that accepts cash for transactions of $500 or less, aiming to ensure payment access for all residents. Ohio lawmakers are advancing the Currency Access to Spend Here (CASH) Act... Ohio lawmakers are advancing the Currency Access to Spend Here (CASH) Act, a proposal that would require retailers and government agencies to maintain at least one cash-accepting checkout option for purchases under $500. Introduced by Representative David Thomas (R-Smithville), the bill responds to rising complaints from residents who say they were denied when attempting to pay with cash. The measure is currently under review in the Ohio House General Government Committee. If enacted, it would have immediate implications for national chains operating in Ohio, including Walmart, Target, and Costco, as well as smaller businesses and municipal agencies. The proposal aims to preserve payment choice during a period of rapid expansion in digital and contactless payment systems. What the CASH Act Actually Does The CASH Act (House Bill 554) establishes a statewide requirement that every business or government office in Ohio maintain at least one functional point of sale—such as a staffed register or self-checkout kiosk—that accepts cash for transactions totaling $500 or less. Key provisions include: Cash Access Requirement: Retailers must keep at least one checkout option where consumers can pay with physical currency. Equal Pricing: Businesses may not charge higher prices or impose additional fees on customers who choose to pay with cash. Scope of Coverage: The rule applies to retail stores, restaurants, government agencies, and service providers operating in Ohio. Exemptions: Airports are currently the only exempt locations. Enforcement: Violations would be treated as deceptive or unfair practices under Ohio consumer protection law, enabling complaints, potential lawsuits, and action from the attorney general. Change from Current Practice: Ohio law does not currently require retailers to accept cash, allowing some locations to adopt card-only or tap-only payment systems. Why the Policy Was Introduced Lawmakers introduced the CASH Act in response to constituent reports that some stores refused cash payments at checkout. Legislators also pointed to a broader national shift toward cashless operations, accelerated in recent years by contactless payment technology and automated checkout trends. Supporters argue that despite growing digital adoption, cash remains important for many residents, particularly those without reliable access to bank accounts or digital wallets. The bill aims to ensure continued financial inclusion and prevent unintentional barriers to essential goods and services. Legal Framework and What the Law Means The CASH Act falls within consumer protection and commercial law, specifically governing how businesses conduct retail transactions.Consumer protection laws are typically enforced by state attorneys general, who can investigate complaints, issue penalties, and bring enforcement actions against businesses that engage in unfair or deceptive trade practices. Similar statutes exist in cities such as New York and Philadelphia, as well as in states like Colorado and New Jersey, where cash-acceptance requirements have been adopted to prevent exclusion of unbanked or underbanked populations. Courts evaluating these laws generally consider whether the requirements impose an unreasonable burden on businesses or conflict with federal currency regulations, which recognize cash as legal tender but do not require private entities to accept it. For compliance, businesses typically update internal policies, signage, staff training, and point-of-sale configurations to ensure at least one cash-accepting lane remains accessible. Regulators monitor violations through consumer complaints and routine inquiries. Impact on Businesses Retailers—including large chains like Walmart, Target, and Costco—would need to maintain at least one cash-capable point of sale in each Ohio location. Operationally, this may require adjustments to staffing, self-checkout configurations, or payment-terminal software. While the bill does not mandate multiple cash registers, businesses must ensure that the designated location remains functional during operating hours. Financially, businesses could face exposure under Ohio’s consumer protection statutes if they fail to comply. This could lead to consumer-initiated complaints, civil enforcement by the attorney general, or potential lawsuits alleging deceptive practices. Retailers that recently adopted cashless models may need to reassess policies to accommodate the new requirement. Impact on Consumers For shoppers, the CASH Act would preserve the ability to use physical currency—particularly important for individuals without bank accounts, credit cards, or mobile payment tools. It would also prevent retailers from charging more for cash transactions, ensuring price consistency across payment methods. The bill reinforces consumer freedom of choice and could reduce confusion at self-checkout stations where cash is not currently accepted. Consumers would also gain additional avenues for filing complaints if a business refuses lawful payment. Key Questions About the Bill Can businesses refuse cash under current Ohio law? Yes. Ohio does not currently require retailers to accept cash, meaning businesses may choose digital-only or card-only systems. The CASH Act would change this by mandating at least one cash-accepting point of sale. Does the CASH Act conflict with federal currency rules? No. Federal law states that U.S. currency is legal tender but does not obligate private businesses to accept it. States and cities are permitted to create cash-acceptance rules under their consumer protection authority. Will online retailers be affected? No. The measure applies to in-person transactions only. Online retailers, delivery apps, and e-commerce platforms are not covered. What counts as a “point of sale” under the bill? A staffed checkout counter, a self-checkout kiosk, or any device that allows the public to complete a transaction with physical currency would qualify, as long as it can accept cash for purchases up to $500. Could businesses face lawsuits for non-compliance? Yes. If the bill becomes law, violations could be treated as unfair or deceptive acts under Ohio consumer protection statutes, allowing consumers to file complaints and permitting enforcement by the attorney general. What Happens Next in the Legislative Process The CASH Act has completed its first hearing before the Ohio House General Government Committee. Additional hearings, amendments, and committee deliberations are expected in the coming weeks. If approved by committee, the bill would advance to the full House for a vote, followed by consideration in the Ohio Senate. Businesses should monitor upcoming committee schedules and potential implementation timelines, as enforcement would begin only after final passage and signature by the governor. Frequently Asked Questions Does the Act apply to government agencies? Yes. Agencies that accept in-person payments for services would be required to offer at least one cash-accepting option. Are there exceptions for special-event venues? Not under the current draft. Only airports are exempt. What is the $500 threshold for? The requirement applies only to transactions of $500 or less, meaning businesses are not obligated to accept cash for larger purchases. Final Legal Takeaway Ohio’s CASH Act would introduce a statewide standard requiring businesses and government offices to maintain at least one checkout option that accepts cash for everyday transactions. The proposal carries meaningful implications for large retailers, small businesses, and consumers alike, particularly those relying on physical currency. If enacted, compliance will center on maintaining at least one cash-ready point of sale and ensuring pricing consistency across payment methods. With legislative review ongoing, businesses should prepare for potential operational adjustments and monitor developments closely.