The Entertainment Establishment Employee Safety Amendment Act of 2025 allows retail establishments with a valid on-premises Class C or Class D retailer license, as well as certain restaurants, to refuse cash as a form of payment. This legislation requires these establishments to display a written and conspicuous notice indicating that cash payments are not accepted. The bill aims to address public safety concerns, particularly for businesses that sell alcohol, which have reported incidents of robbery and burglary. The measure recognizes the significant shift in consumer payment preferences towards contactless options and the need for businesses to adapt to these changes while ensuring the safety of their employees and patrons.

To implement this change, the bill amends Section 28-5404 of the District of Columbia Official Code. It modifies existing legal language by removing certain phrases and adding a new provision that specifically allows eligible businesses to refuse cash payments under the condition that they provide proper notice. This amendment is part of a broader effort to balance the needs of residents, businesses, and entertainment establishment staff while addressing the evolving landscape of payment methods in the post-pandemic environment.