Belt Champions Consumer Choice With Cash Payment Measure

SPRINGFIELD– State Senator Christopher Belt advanced a measure that would prohibit retailers from refusing cash payments up to $500.

“Cash is still a reality for millions of families, seniors and small-business owners,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “No one should feel excluded from participating in routine transactions simply because they choose to pay with cash.”

Belt’s measure would prohibit retailers from refusing cash payments up to $500 or posting signage that cash is not accepted. The measure includes reasonable exceptions, including retailers with self-service checkout but at least one staffed cash register, late-night sales after 10 p.m. and retailers offering prepaid card systems that allow cash conversion.

The measure would focus on retail transactions and would not affect local government payments. The legislation reflects a growing recognition that, while digital payments are convenient, access to cash remains essential for many households across Illinois.

House Bill 4592 passed the Senate Commerce Committee on Wednesday.

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