Ohio’s Radical Cash Law Targets Giants Like Walmart

Hands holding a fan of hundred dollar bills

A new Ohio law could mandate Walmart and Costco to accept cash, a move that challenges the cashless trend and defends consumer rights.

Story Summary

Ohio legislation proposes cash acceptance for transactions under $500.
Bipartisan support focuses on financial inclusion and consumer protection.
Retailers face potential operational adjustments to comply.
Law reflects a growing national debate on cashless policies.

Ohio Legislation Mandating Cash Acceptance

Ohio lawmakers have introduced a bill that could force large retailers like Walmart and Costco to accept cash for in-person transactions. This legislation aims to protect consumers who rely on cash, especially low-income and unbanked individuals. The proposed law would require businesses to offer at least one point of sale for cash transactions under $500, with specific exemptions for certain business types.

The legislation is part of a national trend addressing the rise of cashless policies, which gained traction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses adopted cashless systems for efficiency and safety, inadvertently excluding unbanked and underbanked populations. Ohio’s proposal is notable for its bipartisan support, balancing business efficiency with consumer protection.

Implications for Retailers and Consumers

Large retailers may need to adjust operations, adding cash-accepting registers and training staff to comply with the new law. While this could increase operational costs, it also ensures financial inclusion for cash-dependent consumers. This legislation guarantees payment options and privacy protections, addressing concerns from consumer advocates.

Business associations oppose the regulation, arguing it imposes unnecessary burdens and undermines business autonomy. They emphasize the efficiency and safety benefits of cashless systems, highlighting the potential costs and risks associated with handling cash. Despite these concerns, the law aims to set a precedent that could influence other states and shape national policies on payment systems.

Broader Impact and Future Developments

The proposed Ohio law could have wider implications, prompting similar legislation across other states. It reflects an ongoing debate on government regulation of business practices and consumer rights protection. As the legislation progresses through the Ohio General Assembly, it is subject to lobbying and public debate, with no final vote yet taken as of November 2025.

New Ohio law could require Walmart, Costco to accept cash for payments | New York Post pic.twitter.com/lkiIcMD3wX

— Debra Dosch (@DebraDosch) November 23, 2025

Consumer advocates highlight the need for financial inclusion and privacy, arguing that cashless policies disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. As the discussion continues, the outcome of Ohio’s legislative efforts could shape the future of retail payment systems and influence national policy directions.