A new bill proposes rounding cash transactions to the nearest nickel as the penny phases out, sparking debate over fairness and convenience. Representative April Berg (D-Mill Creek) introduces House Bill 2334 to address the lack of federal guidance on handling cash transactions post-penny discontinuation. The bill aims to provide clear rules for businesses, ensuring fair practices for consumers and reducing confusion. It establishes asymmetrical rounding rules, rounding totals to the nearest nickel: 1 or 2 cents round down, 3, 4, 6, or 7 cents round to 5, and 9 or 9 cents round up. This approach is designed to prevent errors and ensure consistency. The bill also directs state departments to issue clear rules for transactions combining cash and other payment methods, promoting smooth business transitions. As the bill progresses in the 2026 legislative session, it invites discussion on the balance between simplicity and precision in financial transactions.
