Dan Murray, a lobbyist for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), urged Kansas legislators to prevent credit and debit card companies from charging swipe fees on tips and taxes during electronic transactions. Representing 4,000 NFIB members, Murray highlighted the financial strain on Kansas businesses due to rising swipe fees, which have doubled since 2012, as reported by the Kansas Reflector. These fees, ranging from 1.5% to 3.5% per transaction, add to the burden of inflation, making it harder for businesses to grow, raise wages, and remain competitive.

The proposed Consumer Inflation Reduction and Tax Fairness Act (House Bill 2089) would prohibit card issuers from charging interchange fees on the tax or tip portions of transactions. It would give merchants 180 days to report these amounts to card companies. The bill would also allow legal action against violators.

The bill faced opposition from the Kansas Bankers Association and the Kansas Credit Union Association, citing potential legal challenges. However, supporters like Brian Posler argued that the legislation would eliminate unnecessary fees, benefiting Kansas businesses and consumers.