Senator Cris Dush’s legislation, aimed at ensuring schools accept cash for entry to all school-sponsored activities, has been approved by the Pennsylvania Senate with a vote of 47-1. The bill mandates that schools must allow cash payments for events, including those sanctioned by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association.
While schools may continue to offer cashless payment options, Senate Bill 1176 prohibits them from refusing entry to individuals unable to use digital payment methods. “Many Pennsylvania schools now refuse to accept cash as a form of payment into school-sponsored concerts, plays and athletic events,” said Senator Dush. He highlighted that while cashless options are convenient for some and simplify accounting processes, they can pose challenges for the elderly and others on fixed incomes.
The bill was amended by the Senate Education Committee to permit schools to decline excessively large bills, such as $100 notes for low-cost activities. Senator Dush stated, “In our Constitutional Republic, anyone willing to purchase a ticket with legal United States currency should never be discriminated against or denied entrance.”
Dush further explained that the legislation does not prohibit cashless ticketing but ensures that individuals who prefer or need to pay with cash are accommodated. The bill now moves forward to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for consideration.
