JEFFERSON CITY- State Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Glendale, today filed legislation to protect Missouri consumers from new fees attached to credit card transactions. Senate Bill 354 will make illegal any surcharge or convenience charge for the use of a credit card in any transaction.

“Protecting Missouri consumers is the right thing to do, and is critical to ensuring the economic success of the state,” said Sen. Schmitt.

In light of the settlement reached late last year between credit card companies and retailers, which allows retailers to add a surcharge onto a purchase when the customer uses a credit card, Senate Bill 354 protects consumers from these charges.

The legislation is designed to complement the business-friendly environment that Missouri provides by making sure consumers are protected, creating an environment that is also consumer-friendly.

In addition, Senate Bill 354 protects consumers from convenience fees from online retailers that have a physical location within the state, allowing Missourians to buy goods online from in-state businesses and avoid being charged an extra fee.

Ten states already ban surcharges on credit card transactions, including Kansas. Three states have filed similar legislation, including Illinois.

Unlike legislation in other states, this legislation would also prohibit government agencies from adding surcharges to credit card transactions, ensuring that Missourians are completely protected within the state from these extra fees.

The bill still allows retailers to offer discounts to customers who elect to use cash for their purchases, but forbids them from penalizing consumers who choose to use plastic.

For more information on Sen. Schmitt’s sponsored legislation, visit his Missouri Senate website at www.senate.mo.gov/schmitt.