Rhode Island Retailers Must Take Cash Under New Law

Rhode Island has enacted a law ordering businesses to accept cash from customers, although the new law contains no fines or penalties.

Gov. Gina Raimondo (D) signed companion legislation (H5116A/S889) July 1, making it illegal for any retailer to require only credit and debit cards to purchase goods or services. The law, which takes effect immediately, does not apply to online sales.

“More and more retailers are shifting to cashless transactions in other parts of the country for various reasons,” said Rep. Mia Ackerman (D), one of the House bill’s sponsors.

Sen. William J. Conley Jr. ...