H.3654 would mandate that motor fuel retailers charge the same price to customers who pay for fuel with a debit card as those who pay with cash. Retailers who violate this new law would be guilty of a misdemeanor and punishable with a fine of up to $500.

Retailers that charge different prices for purchases made with cash or debit cards likely do so in an attempt to recoup the costs of fees they must pay to credit/debit card companies whenever a customer uses plastic to make a purchase. Denying retailers the ability to charge these alternate prices will either financially harm the retailers themselves, or it may harm consumers when retailers opt to charge all customers the slightly higher debit card price for fuel.

By South Carolina Policy Council

Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.