States grapple with rounding problem for cash purchases as pennies dwindle

CBS News
March 12, 2026
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2 min read

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The Bottom Line

States are addressing cash purchase rounding problems as pennies become scarce.

How This Affects You

Your cash purchases may be rounded up or down as states consider new policies due to the penny shortage.

AI Summary

The U.S. is experiencing a shortage of one-cent coins months after minting its last penny. CBS News reporter Kati Weis is detailing how some states are developing legislation to address rounding issues in cash purchases. This situation matters because it impacts cash transactions for consumers and businesses. The documented consequence is that states are now working on legislative solutions to manage the rounding problem.

What's Being Done

Some states are working on legislation to address the rounding issue for cash purchases.

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