STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – The Arizona House of Representatives on Tuesday passed HB2683, sponsored by State Representative Joseph Chaplik to ensure that businesses with a physical presence in Arizona must accept cash for transactions up to $100. The bill, which previously passed the House Commerce Committee with unanimous support, now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

“Legal tender is exactly that—it must be accepted,” said Representative Chaplik. “Millions of Americans, including the most financially vulnerable rely on cash for their daily transactions. No one should be denied the ability to buy groceries, medicine, or other essentials simply because they choose or need to use cash.”

HB2683 prohibits businesses from imposing extra fees for cash payments and establishes civil penalties for violations. The bill does not apply to online sales or private contracts but ensures that brick-and-mortar businesses cannot deny customers the ability to use U.S. currency.

“Not everyone has a credit card or a bank account,” added Representative Chaplik. “This bill protects seniors, working-class families, and those who prefer the privacy of cash transactions. It stops businesses from turning away customers who are simply trying to pay with their own hard-earned money.”

With similar laws already enacted in states such as Colorado, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, Arizona is taking an important step to ensure consumer rights are upheld. The legislation also aligns with the House Republican Majority Plan, which prioritizes individual rights, economic opportunity, and rolling back corporate overreach.

The bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration.

Joseph Chaplik is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 3 and is Chairman of the Regulatory Oversight Committee. Follow him on X at @JosephChaplik.