Washington, DC – Today, Councilmember Christina Henderson introduced the Entertainment Establishment Employee Safety Amendment Act of 2024. The bill would exempt select businesses from being required to accept cash in an effort to reduce potential crime and safety concerns.

“Retailers in the District have unfortunately been targets of robberies and theft, and we have seen many permanently close due to the irrecoverable losses,” stated Councilmember Henderson. “This bill will exempt Class C and D alcohol license holders from being required to carry cash, alleviating the potential for crimes like theft which endanger and ultimately hinders the economic growth of our District.”

“The Cashless Retailers Prohibition Act of 2019 was passed to provide unbanked customers with the option to always use cash. However, this bill no longer fully addresses the dynamic of the retail landscape in DC, including the proliferation of cash payment services such as Venmo, PayPal and CashApp. I am proud to introduce legislation that keeps up with changing tides and protects the safety and security of our retail establishments, their workers, and customers,” concluded Councilmember Henderson.

Class C license holders include establishments such as restaurants, hotels, taverns, nightclubs, and other entertainment venues that are allowed to sell and serve spirits, beer and wine. Class D license holders include the same establishments that restrict their service to beer and wine only. Although the Cashless Retailers Prohibition Act was passed in 2019, it has currently been delayed until 2025.

This bill was co-introduced by Councilmembers Brooke Pinto and Matthew Frumin.  

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