S4153

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring retailers to accept American currency, with a 55-7 vote on Calendar Number 320, Senate Print 4153. Sponsor Sen. Sanders argued the bill addresses a contradiction in which the U.S. demands other nations accept the dollar while some New York stores refuse cash payments. "This is unacceptable," Sanders said, contending the practice discriminates against less affluent Americans. Sen. Krueger supported the measure, citing instances where stores impose 3 percent surcharges on credit card purchases, effectively forcing consumers away from cash and increasing costs during a period of rising affordability concerns. While acknowledging that credit and debit cards offer benefits, Sanders emphasized that stores should still accept legal tender. Seven senators voted against the bill: Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Gallivan, Helming, Oberacker, Scarcella-Spanton, Stec, and Walczyk. The bill takes effect 120 days after becoming law.