THREE major US states are making changes to the highly controversial self-serve kiosks, rolling out new self-checkout laws that will impact how you buy groceries.
Americans who fail to adhere to the new legislation could face hefty fines up to $10,000.
Three US states are rolling out new laws related to the controversial self-service machines, impacting how millions of Americans buy groceries[/caption]
Self-checkout has been around for over 40 years, with the concept emerging in the 80s as a potential workaround to lengthy lines and high labor costs at retailers.
The first kiosk was installed at a Kroger supermarket in Atlanta in 1986, with the tech gaining traction in retail stores throughout the 90s.
The self-serve machines have since become more widespread, peaking in adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic due to health concerns.
While the machines were initially met with enthusiasm, the kiosks have also faced much criticism due to the high theft they cause, potential checkout errors, and a perceived drop in customer service.
As a result, many retailers are currently exploring ways to address these concerns.
A handful of states have also reevaluated their take on self-checkout, creating laws to regulate the controversial checkout method.
TEXAS
Self-checkout theft – also called “skip scanning” – is an increasing problem in Texas, and shoppers who commit the act can be charged with shoplifting.
Self-checkout theft is so common in The Lone Star State that there are special names for different types:
- “The pass around” – Not scanning an item
- “The banana trick” – Ringing up an expensive item using the code of a cheaper one
- “The switcheroo” – Peeling off the sticker of a cheap product and putting it on a pricer item
The type of self-checkout theft used impacts the fine that shoppers face.
For the pass around technique, the accused is generally fined based on the total value of the items stolen.
For example, for customers who steal items adding up to under $100, the maximum fine they will face is $500.
If the total stolen falls between $100 and $750, the thief may face up to 180 days in jail and a maximum fine of $2,000.
The most serious crime – stealing goods valued at more than $300,000 – is considered a first degree felony and punishable by up to life in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000.
Anti-theft measures rolled out by retailers
Retailers across the US and Canada have rolled out strategies designed to combat theft. The U.S. Sun has compiled a list of measures that have been implemented at stores.
- Locking items in cabinets
- Security pegs
- Security cameras
- Signs warning about the impact of theft
- Receipt scanners
- Receipt checks
- Carts with locking technology
The best way to avoid potential consequences is by following the “beep” rule, or ensuring you hear a beeping noise when scanning your purchases at self-checkout.
RHODE ISLAND
Rhode Island is also strategizing when it comes to self-checkout, an effort spearheaded by Senate President Valarie Lawson.
She proposed a bill that would ban grocery stores from having over six self-serve kiosks at one time.
If passed, the legislation would also mandate that grocery stores have one or more traditional checkout lanes open for every two self-checkout stations available.
Lawson proposed the bill with frustrated shoppers in mind, especially elderly Americans who may find it difficult to use the technology.
“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,” she said.
Lawson also wrote up the bill in an effort to protect grocery store staff.
“When stores use too many self-checkout stations it can cut worker hours and leave some workers struggling to manually cover eight self-checkout stations on their own,” she said.
The bill was approved by the Rhode Island Senate and is currently under consideration by the Rhode Island House.
Latest self-checkout changes
Retailers are evolving their self-checkout strategy in an effort to speed up checkout times and reduce theft.
Walmart shoppers were shocked when self-checkout lanes at various locations were made available only for Walmart+ members.
Other customers reported that self-checkout was closed during specific hours, and more cashiers were offered instead.
While shoppers feared that shoplifting fueled the updates, a Walmart spokesperson revealed that store managers are simply experimenting with ways to improve checkout performance.
One bizarre experiment included an RFID-powered self-checkout kiosk that would stop the fiercely contested receipt checks.
However, that test run has been phased out.
At Target, items are being limited at self-checkout.
Last fall, the brand surveyed new express self-checkout lanes across 200 stores with 10 items or less for more convenience.
As of March 2024, this policy has been expanded across 2,000 stores in the US.
Shoppers have also spotted their local Walmart stores restricting customers to 15 items or less to use self-checkout machines.
CALIFORNIA
Long Beach, California – roughly 25 miles from Los Angeles – is looking to crack down on self-checkout.
The city council voted to implement a new self-serve kiosk law in a local ordinance called “Safe Stores are Staffed Stores.”
If passed, the law would dictate that grocery stores and retail drug stores must have one or more employees supervising every two self-checkout machines.
Marking the first law of its kind in the nation, it would also roll out a 15 items or fewer rule at self-checkout.
Retailers may face fines of up to $2,500 for each hour that they fail to adhere to the new regulations.
Long Beach’s city council voted to approve the ordinance on June 17, and the city allotted 30 days to finalize the law.
Consumers should be aware of other laws in place before they head to the store.
Walmart and Target shoppers in nine states face up to $2,500 fines from a “cart” law – but there are three ways to avoid the fee.
Plus, there are eight US states with “wardrobing” laws that could cost you $5,000 in fines – and you may not even know you’re breaking the law.
Texas, California, and Rhode Island are all rethinking the role of self-checkout in retail[/caption]
