The current penny shortage and lack of guidance from the federal government have left retailers and other cash-accepting businesses uncertain on how to handle cash transactions where pennies are unavailable. The National Retail Federation (NRF) and National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) as part of a coalition of trade associations representing thousands of businesses across the country sent a letter to the leaders of key Congressional banking committees, urging swift action to address the looming penny shortage.  The Federal Reserve, responsible for distributing coins, is already reporting penny shortages across dozens of locations with the expectation for this issue to grow as the US heads into the holiday season. “These businesses—large and small— must be able to continue their commitment to our communities in ways that are fair to everyone and avoid unintended operational hurdles that are being caused by the rapid loss of the U.S. penny,” the groups wrote.https://www.convenience.org/getattachment/Media/Daily/2025/1/1/2-NACS-Urges-Congress-to-Address-Penny-Shortage_GR/Trades-Letter-to-Banking-and-Financial-Services-on-Pennies_Final.pdf?lang=en-US