National Grocers Association Supports House Passage of Common Cents Act, Urges Swift Action in the Senate

• September 15, 2026

Washington, D.C. - The National Grocers Association (NGA), the trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, today applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the bipartisan Common Cents Act, legislation that provides retailers with clear legal authority and protections to round cash transactions to the nearest nickel after the end of penny production in 2025.

The legislation, championed by Rep. Lisa McClain (MI-09) and Rep. Robert Garcia (CA-42), establishes a national framework for allowing businesses to continue serving customers efficiently and fairly as pennies fall out of circulation.

Last year, the U.S. Mint ended penny production, while Federal Reserve coin distribution centers nationwide reported significant shortages. These shortages have made it difficult for many retailers to provide exact change for cash purchases, prompting businesses to adopt rounding practices despite the absence of clear legal protections or guidance.

"Independent grocers serve communities and millions of shoppers nationwide each day, and the sudden shortage of pennies created significant operational hurdles and legal uncertainty for retailers large and small," said Stephanie Johnson, NGA SVP and head of government affairs. "NGA thanks Reps. McClain and Garcia for their leadership on the Common Cents Act and for recognizing the need for a clear, national framework as pennies fall out of circulation. This legislation gives businesses the consistency they need to handle cash transactions fairly and efficiently while minimizing disruption for consumers. We now urge the Senate to pass this important legislation and provide relief and certainty to independent grocers."

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About NGA

NGA is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale community grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating a variety of formats. The independent grocery sector is accountable for about 1.2 percent of the nation's overall economy and is responsible for generating more than $250 billion in sales, 1.1 million jobs, $39 billion in wages and $36 billion in taxes. NGA members include retail and wholesale grocers located in every congressional district across the country, as well as state grocers' associations, manufacturers and service suppliers. For more information about NGA, visit www.nationalgrocers.org.