The New York City Council passed a bill on 23 January that will slap hefty fines on businesses and restaurants that refuse to accept cash; pointing out that it is discriminating against New Yorkers who lack bank accounts and credit cards. Under the bill, businesses that refuse cash will be fined $1,000 for the first violation and $1,500 after that. The measure, which is expected to go into effect by the end of the year, also prohibits stores from charging higher prices for paying in cash.

Backers of the cashless model say the benefits include greater efficiency and eliminating the risk of theft, but opponents say millions of Americans still rely on cash.

In adopting the ban on cashless businesses, New York City joins a growing backlash against the digital-only economy. Similar bans now exist in Philadelphia, San Francisco and New Jersey and Massachusetts.