COVID Effect. Banning Cashless Retailers

What is happening? King County, Washington is considering a proposal to ban retailers that are cashless. The proposal would require retailers to accept cash up to $250 and would prohibit higher cash prices. Cashless became common at the outset of the pandemic to minimize contact. Supporters say that cashless businesses discriminate against low income consumers and raises privacy concerns.

Why is this important? 1.9% of King County residents are underbanked with no access to a bank account. Interestingly. I read recently that Denmark became a cashless country and saw the number of robberies decrease.

Governing | King County Council Considers Banning Cashless Retailers