Rhode Island has become the first state to take on big ... self-checkout?
Legislation passed and signed in the Ocean State limits the number of self-checkout lanes a store is allowed to have, and it's based on the ratio of normal checkout lanes with cashiers. The goal is to protect jobs.
Here's WPRI:
'Today, we're protecting jobs and strengthening customer service,' [Rhode Island Governor Dan] McKee 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.'
This is a disaster for Walmart!
(Wait, are there Walmarts in Rhode Island?)
Stores have to have one manned checkout lane open for every three self-checkout lanes.
They also have to have an employee who oversees the self-checkout area, and that employee is not allowed to be assigned any other tasks while they stand around watching people self-checkout.
The law also states that stores all have to have a manned register to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
And if you don't abide by these restrictions, it'll cost you $1,000 a day!
Employees are encouraged to report their employers if they violate the law.
Senate President Valarie Lawson said she introduced the bill out of concern for cashier workers, as well as customers who might struggle with 'frustrating' self-checkout experiences.
'We've all experienced an issue using a self-service checkout and had to wait for an overtaxed employee to come over to resolve it, an experience that can be far more challenging for elderly members of the community,' Lawson said. 'This bill would provide options for the consumer by making sure staffed checkout lanes are always available while also improving the store environment for workers and consumers.'
Of course, the grocery stores aren't happy with the change. Worried about their bottom lines, self-checkout is a major cost-saving mechanism for grocers. This regulation would, according to some, cause businesses to have to raise prices or cut back service in other areas.
'On behalf of the grocery industry, RIFDA has been vehemently opposed to self-checkout legislation,' Bromberg said in a statement to 12 News. 'Our industry is being unfairly targeted, when checkout automation has spread to all retail environments including hardware stores, mass merchants, dollar stores, pharmacies, and even fast-food chains.'
Bromberg also said the bill will only make it more difficult for Rhode Island grocery stores to operate 'as they see fit,' noting that it could lead to longer lines and higher prices.
'Grocery retailers run at razor thin margins and need flexibility to effectively and efficiently operate their stores, offer competitive prices, and provide great customer service,' he continued.
Yeah, the free marketers aren't going to like this one at all.
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