District of ColumbiaTemporary D.C. law let some retailers and restaurants refuse cash
Before it expired in October 2026, the law let certain licensed retailers and late night restaurants in D.C. refuse cash after posting clear notice.
What it does
Retailers with certain licenses and restaurants open around the clock or at 3 a.m. at least twice a week could refuse cash after posting clear notice. This permission expired October 20, 2026.
Argument forAllowing covered late night restaurants to refuse cash could have reduced how much cash workers handled overnight.
Argument againstCustomers who relied on cash might have been unable to buy food at a covered restaurant without another way to pay.
More detail
Eligible retailers and restaurants could refuse cash during the act's temporary term. It covered retailers with valid Class C or D licenses for sales on site, and restaurants open 24 hours or operating at 3 a.m. at least two days a week. They had to display a clear, written notice on the establishment's door or menu saying they did not accept cash. The act took effect after the mayor approved it on July 22, 2026, and expired on October 20, 2026.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Aug 7Act A26-0376 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 011083, Expires on Oct 20, 2026Latest
- Jul 23Returned from Mayor
- Jul 22Signed by the Mayor and Enacted with Act Number A26-0376, Expires on Oct 20, 2026Became Law
- Jul 14Transmitted to Mayor, Response Due on Jul 28, 2026To Governor
- Jun 30Final ReadingMinor
- Vote recorded Final Reading. Result: pass.Legislature
- Jun 30Agendized; not considered at the request of Bonds (Amendment Withdrawn)Major
- Jun 30Retained by the Council
- Jun 26B26-0710 Introduced by Councilmember Henderson at Office of the SecretaryIntroduced
Consumer ProtectionEconomy & Jobs