This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new article that mandates businesses, specifically retail establishments that prepare, sell, or serve food, as well as other service providers, to accept cash as a form of payment. The legislation prohibits these establishments from discriminating against customers who wish to pay with cash, meaning they cannot require payment through credit or debit cards or electronic methods. However, this requirement does not extend to transactions conducted via telephone, mail order, or online where the buyer is not physically present at the business.

Additionally, the bill grants the West Virginia Treasurer's Office the authority to create regulations for implementing this cash payment requirement, including the ability to establish exemptions based on various criteria such as the type of establishment or the nature of the goods and services offered. Violations of this mandate could result in fines of up to $500. The article is set to take effect upon passage, with the West Virginia Department of Commerce empowered to enact necessary regulations to facilitate its implementation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 31-22-1, 31-22-2