Could Going Cashless Result in Legal Problems?
Going cashless is an emerging trend that business owners and restaurateurs are discussing, contemplating and testing. Some businesses have already gone cashless.
What Are the Advantages of a Cashless System?
According to CBS News some ideas in favor include:
- Safer establishments due to no cash on hand
- Direct reporting into the accounting system
- More taxes getting paid
What Businesses Have Been Considering Going Cashless?
Bluestone Lane Coffee along with the salad chain Sweetgreen, both located in Philadelphia have gone cashless. They comprise a total of six stores. Nationwide chains including Dos Toros, Dig Inn and Tender Greens no longer accept cash. Companies that have experimented with cashless stores include Starbucks, Milk Bar, Amazon, Walmart and Shake Shack.
Is a Cashless System Discriminatory?
Pew Research conducted a survey that found the following demographics rely on cash for almost all of their purchases:
- 34% of African Americans
- 17% of Hispanics
- 29% of people earning less than $30,000 a year
Are There States or Cities that Have Passed Laws Banning Cashless Restaurants?
Restaurant Business reported that the city of Philadelphia passed a law, becoming the first city in the U.S. to ban cashless systems for local restaurants and businesses. The law goes into effect July 1, 2019.
Massachusetts also banned restaurants and other retail businesses from refusing to accept cash payments. New Jersey recently passed a law, on March 18, 2019, that required businesses to accept cash. The law goes into effect immediately, and businesses face a $2,500 fine for the first offense and a $5,000 fine for the second offense.
Lawmakers in New York City are currently working to pass a bill that will prohibit retail businesses from refusing cash payments.
Is suing a business for going cashless potentially a new form of discrimination lawsuit? While no lawsuits of this type have been reported in the mainstream media, media outlets are publishing articles arguing that the practice is discriminatory.
If you are considering making the change, it is wise to consult with an attorney and seek legal advice.
At Stephen Hans & Associates, we work with employers to help them comply with employment laws and to deal with employment issues.