Bill C-276: Framework on the Access to and Use of Cash Act

This bill affects virtually every business in Canada that handles payments, but most directly impacts financial institutions (banks, credit unions) that would be required to maintain cash infrastructure including ATMs, teller services, and deposit facilities within reasonable distances for all Canadians. Retail businesses, restaurants, and service providers across all provinces would have their right to accept cash as payment explicitly protected, meaning they could not be pressured into going cashless. Non-profit organizations and community groups that rely on cash donations for fundraising — such as charities running in-person events or collection drives — would benefit from measures to remove barriers to cash-based giving. Small and rural businesses are particularly affected, as the framework mandates that cash access infrastructure must be present across Canada, potentially influencing where ATMs and bank branches must operate.