Bill > HB2481

This bill requires retail businesses in West Virginia to accept cash as a form of payment, preventing them from mandating electronic payment methods like credit or debit cards for in-person transactions. Specifically, the bill stipulates that any establishment selling food or offering goods and services must accept United States currency as legal tender, with exceptions for transactions that do not occur in the physical business location (such as online or telephone orders). The West Virginia Treasurer's Office is authorized to create regulations implementing this requirement, with the ability to grant exemptions based on factors like the type of establishment, goods or services, currency denominations, or transaction amounts. Businesses found in violation of this requirement can be fined up to $500. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage, with the Department of Commerce empowered to create necessary implementing regulations. The underlying intent appears to be protecting consumers' ability to use cash and preventing discrimination against customers who prefer or only have cash payment options.

Budget and Finance

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2481&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill