The move comes as self-checkout technology remains a debated issue among shoppers, businesses, and lawmakers across the United States. Some customers appreciate the speed and convenience of automated checkout, while others prefer traditional cashier-operated lanes.
Retailers have also been reviewing their self-checkout policies as they deal with concerns linked to theft, inventory losses, and customer service. Companies have taken different approaches, with Walmart continuing to use self-checkout systems while Trader Joe’s has chosen not to introduce them in its stores.
Rhode Island’s new rules are included in Senate Bill 2342, which was signed into law by Governor Dan McKee on June 18, 2026, after being approved by the state House of Representatives and Senate.
Rhode Island Introduces a Three-for-One Self-Checkout Rule
Under SB 2342, grocery stores in Rhode Island must have one traditional checkout lane operated by a cashier for every three self-checkout kiosks. The requirement will apply from January 1, 2027.
The law also limits grocery stores to a maximum of eight self-service checkout stations operating at any one time at each location. Retailers will need to decide how many kiosks remain available during store hours while meeting the new requirements.
SB 2342 also prevents employees from managing self-checkout stations while handling other responsibilities. The legislation states that an employee monitoring a self-service checkout area must be relieved of other duties, including operating a manual checkout station.
The rule is designed to ensure that customers using self-checkout have access to dedicated assistance when problems occur.
Officials Say the Law Protects Customer Options
Governor Dan McKee said the legislation was intended to protect jobs and maintain access to in-person assistance for shoppers. According to CBS affiliate WPRI, McKee said the law would support customers who need help, including seniors and people with disabilities.
“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,” McKee said.
Rhode Island Senate President Valarie J. Lawson also supported the measure, saying it would improve the experience for both shoppers and retail workers.
“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.
Lawson added that the law would ensure staffed checkout lanes remain available while improving conditions for employees and customers.
Retailers Face Fines and Accessibility Requirements
Stores that fail to comply with the new requirements after January 1, 2027, could face penalties of up to $1,000 per day. The law states that fines can be equal to the wages for one eight-hour shift based on the highest hourly wage for retail clerks for each day a violation occurs.
The legislation also requires stores to maintain at least one self-checkout lane that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. This accessible self-checkout option must be available during peak hours between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Violations related to this accessibility requirement could result in daily fines of $500, according to the law.
The new rules will require grocery retailers operating in Rhode Island to adjust their self-checkout operations before the deadline. The legislation places new requirements on how stores balance automated checkout systems with staffed customer service options.
