Cash Acceptance, Jury Duty Pay
Pritzker Signs Laws Mandating Cash Acceptance and Full Jury Duty Pay for Workers
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Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed two new laws that will change how businesses treat customers and workers. One law requires most in-person businesses to accept cash for purchases under $500. The other requires companies with more than 25 employees to pay workers their full wages while on jury duty, according to Pantagraph.
The two measures mark a shift toward protecting consumers who rely on cash and workers who fear losing pay during civic service. Both laws apply across Illinois, Herald-Review reported.
Businesses Must Now Accept Cash Under $500
Under the new cash-acceptance law, most businesses that sell goods or services in person must take cash as payment for any transaction under $500. The rule targets a growing trend of cashless businesses that turn away customers who do not have a card or smartphone, JG-TC reported.
Supporters say the law protects people who do not have bank accounts or credit cards. Millions of Americans — including many low-income and elderly residents — still rely on cash for everyday purchases. Refusing cash can effectively lock those people out of basic goods and services.
Full Pay Required for Jury Duty Service
The second law requires Illinois employers with more than 25 workers to pay employees their full, regular rate of pay while they serve on jury duty. Previously, many workers either got no pay or received only a small daily stipend from the court — often just $12 to $25 per day, according to QC Times.
Lost wages are one of the top reasons people try to avoid jury duty. Critics argue that unpaid or underpaid jury service falls hardest on hourly workers, who cannot afford to miss a paycheck. The new law aims to remove that financial barrier for employees at larger companies.
Small Businesses and Employers Face New Rules
The jury duty pay requirement applies only to businesses with more than 25 employees. Smaller employers are exempt, likely to ease the financial burden on companies with fewer resources, QC Online noted.
The cash-acceptance law includes some exceptions as well. Businesses that operate entirely online are not covered. The $500 threshold also means large purchases — like furniture or appliances — may still be handled differently. Retailers and restaurants will need to adjust their payment policies before the law takes effect.
Illinois Joins Broader National Push for Cash Access
Illinois is not alone in this push. Several other states and cities — including New Jersey, Massachusetts, and New York City — have already passed laws requiring businesses to accept cash. Advocates say these rules protect financial inclusion, meaning everyone can take part in the economy regardless of whether they have a bank account, according to Pantagraph.
Together, the two new Illinois laws reflect a wider effort to make economic life fairer for workers and consumers. Governor Pritzker's signatures signal that both consumer protection and worker rights remain active priorities in Springfield.
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