Rhode Island Becomes First State to Limit Supermarket Self-Checkout

A new Rhode Island law limits the number of self-checkout lanes a supermarket can operate at any given time and threatens stiff fines for markets that don't follow the new rules.

WPRI-TV 12 reported, "Under the new legislation, all grocery stores in the state will be required to have one manually staffed cashier lane for every three self-checkout stations."

Why Rhode Island Passed the New Self-Checkout Law

"It also limits the tasks a worker can be assigned, stating that their employer must relieve them of all other duties – including running a manual lane – while monitoring self-checkout stations," according to the station.

"One manual cashier lane must always be open in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act," WPRI reported.

New Rhode Island Law Limits Number Of Supermarket Self-Checkouts

How Rhode Island's Law Compares With Other States

Supermarket News said, "Lawmakers in Massachusetts and New York City have also taken a hard look at how self-checkout areas are managed."

"Long Beach, California became the first city to pass an ordinance with staffing requirements for self-checkout last August," according to the site.

Rhode Island is the first state to cap the number of self-checkout lanes at supermarkets. Governor Dan McKee signed the new "Self-Service Station Checkout Act" into law in June.

Governor McKee Says the Law Protects Workers and Customers

WPRI reported McKee praised the new law during signing ceremonies.

"Today, we're protecting jobs and strengthening customer service," he said. "Whether it's helping a customer with an issue, assisting a senior, or ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities, this law is about preserving choice and keeping people at the center of the shopping experience."

Legal Newsline stated, "Noncompliance would be handled with fines, state enforcement by the state Attorney General, and anti-retaliation protections for employees and customers."

Penalties Grocery Stores Could Face

"Grocery stores that violate the law can be fined based on the wages for one full shift at the highest hourly pay rate, up to $1,000 per day," according to WPRI.