NCSL - National Conference of State Legislatures

12/03/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/04/2025 16:37

As the Penny Supply Runs Out, States May Have a Key Role to Play

WASHINGTON, D.C.- The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) today released a report outlining the economic, legal and operational implications of eliminating the penny as well as policy considerations for states navigating this transition.

After the White House instructed the U.S. Department of the Treasury to cease penny production, which minted its final penny on November 12, the federal government did not issue accompanying regulations on how the transition should proceed.

In the absence of clear federal guidance, NCSL's report highlights nine areas for states to consider:

  • Rounding Clarity
  • Federal Role
  • Legal and Statutory Adjustments
  • Revenue Impact and Allocation
  • Refunds and Consumer Protections
  • Forms, IT Systems, and Implementation
  • Communication, Training, and Coordination
  • Network Payment Rules and Compliance
  • Policy Direction and Legislative Approach

Policymakers have the opportunity to consider any potential actions to help ensure that rounding rules are fair, transparent, and effective.

Read the entire report here.

NCSL is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.

NCSL - National Conference of State Legislatures published this content on December 03, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on December 04, 2025 at 22:37 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]