MN HF4298

Food stores and retail establishments are prohibited from refusing cash payments from consumers, except for bills denominated above $20 or for remote transactions (telephone, mail, internet) not conducted on premises.

Establishments cannot charge higher prices to consumers paying in cash compared to consumers using cashless payment methods for the same commodity.

Establishments may comply with the cash acceptance requirement by providing an on-premises device that converts cash to a prepaid card with no fee and maximum $1 minimum deposit, with no expiration dates or transaction limits on deposited funds.

If a cash-to-prepaid card device malfunctions, the establishment must accept cash payments during the malfunction period and display a conspicuous sign notifying consumers of this requirement and their right to report violations to the attorney general.

Violations result in civil penalties of up to $1,000 for the first violation and up to $1,500 for each subsequent violation, effective January 1, 2025.