Georgia bill allowing merchants to stop using pennies passes

The Georgia General Assembly passed a bill letting merchants round cash transactions to the nearest nickel, reducing the use of pennies. Lawmakers also approved income tax cuts while a proposed property tax reform failed.

The 2026 Georgia legislative session ended early Friday as lawmakers approved a range of measures. Among the bills that passed was one allowing merchants to round cash transactions to the nearest nickel, which would reduce the role of pennies in everyday retail. Lawmakers noted the U.S. government has announced it will stop producing pennies, a factor cited during debate. The session also produced a package of tax changes and other bills, while some proposals did not advance. Key developments: - The General Assembly approved a bill allowing merchants to round cash transactions to the nearest nickel, removing the need to use pennies. - The U.S. government announced it will stop producing pennies, a point mentioned by lawmakers and business owners during debate. - Lawmakers passed a reduction in the state income tax rate to 4.99% with plans to lower it toward 3.99% over time. - Efforts to cut or cap property taxes failed before adjournment. - Other measures that passed include requiring insurance to cover ambulance rides, funding for childhood literacy, and a ban on cellphones in Georgia high schools. - A proposal to require weapons detectors in all schools did not pass. Summary: The rounding measure passed and allows merchants to round cash totals to the nearest nickel, which would reduce reliance on pennies, while income tax reductions also moved forward and property tax reform did not. Undetermined at this time.