Senate Bill No. 254, introduced by Senator Mizell, aims to regulate surcharges imposed by retail businesses on debit card transactions. The bill enacts Chapter 52 of Title 51 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, which includes definitions for key terms such as "cardholder," "debit card," "retail business," and "surcharge." It explicitly prohibits retail businesses from charging any surcharge to cardholders who use debit cards for purchases, thereby protecting consumers from additional fees. If a retail business violates this provision, they will be liable for damages incurred by the cardholder, including attorney fees.

The bill also empowers the attorney general to enforce compliance by bringing civil actions against violators. Retail businesses found in violation of the law may face civil penalties of up to $500 for each infraction. Additionally, the attorney general is required to establish a toll-free number and an electronic reporting system for consumers to report unlawful surcharges. Complaints submitted by cardholders must include specific transaction details and documentation of the surcharge. The law is set to take effect on August 1, 2026.