Publisher: National Grocers Association
Published: September 29, 2026
Source: Read at National Grocers Association (https://www.nationalgrocers.org/news/nga-applauds-senate-passage-of-common-cents-act/)
Category: Food Access
The Senate passed the bipartisan Common Cents Act, sponsored by Sen. Cynthia Lummis (WY) and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (NY). The bill would give retailers legal authority and protections to round cash transactions to the nearest nickel after penny production ends in 2025. The National Grocers Association said retailers have faced penny shortages and uncertainty over making exact change. NGA represents independent retail and wholesale grocers.
Why this matters: If enacted, the bill would give independent grocers a consistent federal framework for handling cash transactions when pennies are unavailable. Stores may need to update checkout procedures and communicate rounding practices to customers.
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