S4153A

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring businesses to accept American currency, with a 53-3 vote on Calendar Number 320, Senate Print 4153A. Sponsored by Sen. Sanders, the bill mandates that retailers accept cash payments and prohibits discrimination against customers using U.S. currency in favor of foreign credit cards. Sen. Sanders argued the measure sends an important message that American currency must be accepted at every store in the state, as it is the nation's legal tender. He illustrated his point with an anecdote about a family being refused cash payment at a restaurant. Only Sens. Gallivan, Stec, and Walczyk voted against the measure. The bill takes effect 120 days after becoming law.