Legal Tender; to require certain persons who sell or offer goods and services to accept cash as payment, exceptions provided

HB 526 requires businesses with at least six employees to accept cash for in-person purchases, directly affecting most retail stores, restaurants, and service providers. It mandates that these businesses cannot refuse cash payments or force credit use, with key exceptions for airports (requiring two cash-accepting vendors), parking facilities, car rentals (which may accept checks instead), and cash-to-prepaid-card kiosks (limited to $5 minimum deposits). The law would take effect on October 1, 2026, and does not apply to online transactions or businesses offering alternative payment methods like mobile apps. It aims to protect consumers who prefer cash, particularly in communities with limited digital access.