If you’ve tried giving exact change lately, you’ve felt it: the penny is disappearing. The U.S. Mint stopped producing them earlier this year, and the federal government is no longer recirculating existing coins through banks. That’s left restaurants across New Mexico scrambling to explain why a $12.97 bill can’t be settled cleanly with cash.
This isn’t just awkward—it’s disruptive.
Why It Matters
New Mexico restaurants still handle a significant volume of cash transactions. When pennies vanish, operators face daily friction:
● Guests are confused or frustrated.
● Servers and cashiers are stuck explaining the shortage.
● Businesses are left improvising without legal clarity.
And with one in four restaurant purchases still paid in cash, this isn’t a fringe issue—it’s a statewide headache.
What the Industry Is Asking For
In a 90-second video update, the National Restaurant Association lays out a clear request to Congress:
1. Restore circulation of existing pennies.
2. Allow rounding to the nearest nickel when exact change isn’t available.
This isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about keeping commerce functional. The Albuquerque Journal confirms that the Treasury’s move to phase out pennies is already causing ripple effects across retail and hospitality.
What New Mexico Operators Can Do
● Train your team to explain the issue calmly and clearly.
● Post signage at registers and host stands to preempt confusion.
● Join the advocacy push—contact your representatives and support the National Restaurant Association’s call for legislative change.
Final Word
New Mexico’s hospitality industry has weathered labor shortages, inflation, and pandemic pivots. The penny shortage is just the latest curveball—but it’s one we can’t afford to ignore. Let’s make sure Congress hears us loud and clear: restaurants need flexibility, not friction.