Bill > S237

This bill proposes to regulate self-checkout stations in Massachusetts grocery stores by establishing specific operational requirements and enforcement mechanisms. The legislation limits grocery stores to a maximum of 8 self-service checkout stations per location and mandates that for every 2 self-checkout stations, there must be at least 1 manual checkout station with human assistance. Additionally, no more than 2 self-checkout stations can be simultaneously monitored by a single employee, who must be fully dedicated to monitoring those stations and not performing other duties. The Massachusetts Division of Standards will be the primary enforcement agency, with the authority to create a penalty matrix that imposes escalating fines for violations, with the first violation fine equivalent to one full day of pay and benefits for retail clerks. The bill also provides protections for both employees and consumers who file complaints about violations, including prohibitions against retaliation and the ability to bring legal action. If a grocery store does not comply within 30 days of receiving a violation notice, the Massachusetts Attorney General can step in to enforce compliance. The legislation defines key terms like "grocery store," "groceries," and "self-service checkout" to provide clarity, and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the law is found unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will remain in effect.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S237