A bill introduced in May 2026 in New York proposes that supermarkets and other food establishments be required to apply a 10% discount to all purchases made at self-checkout lanes.
The proposal aims for consumers, by taking on tasks like scanning items, bagging, and payment, to receive a share of the savings generated by reduced labor costs.
The retail sector has expressed skepticism, warning of potential widespread price increases or the elimination of self-checkout systems. The legislation still requires approval from the state legislature and the governor's signature.