MO HB496

Prohibits merchants and lessors from imposing surcharges on customers who use credit or charge cards instead of cash, check, or similar payment methods in sales or lease transactions.

Defines a surcharge as any additional amount imposed at the time of transaction that increases the charge to the buyer or lessee for using a credit or charge card.

Exempts state agencies, departments, counties, utility providers, local governmental entities, and other governmental entities that accept credit cards for payment of fees, taxes, or other charges.

Permits merchants and lessors to offer discounts for payment by cash, check, or non-credit card means without this being considered a finance charge, provided the discount is offered to all prospective buyers and clearly disclosed.