We are all at liberty in a free society to use the resources at our disposal in any way we consider desirable in our own eyes; and often to far better effect than when determined and directed by government.
The above is quoted from an article discussing Milton Friedman and Freedom to Choose (American Institute for Economic Research).
Digital Currency Proposal
In March of 2022 an executive order was issued for preparation of a report on a central bank digital currency (CBDC). Like Bitcoin, CBDCs are a form of cryptocurrency but one that is managed by the federal government.
Supporters point to simplification of tracking all payments and deposits involving physical cash. They also claim enhanced government ability to reduce fraudulent use of cash. The implementation of CBDCs may also eliminate credit card merchant transaction fees since funds are cleared without bank transfers.
Critics are alarmed at the power CBDCs would provide the feds to allow or punish specific types of purchases. A previous blog explains the risks CBDCs pose to the American consumer. Objections include providing government agencies the ability to block purchases of items deemed “climate risks”, firearms and ammunition, foods and beverages not favored by FDA, etc. The dangers to American consumer privacy and freedom of choice seriously outweigh the advantages touted by supporters.
Florida Pushback
Resistance to the idea of CBDC was led by Florida and joined by North Carolina and South Carolina. In May 2023 the legislature passed, with the governor’s signature, a law banning federal introduction of CBDC in Florida. South Dakota’s governor vetoed a house bill that would have amended the definition of currency to include CBDC.
Recognizing a key concern of CBDC critics, Florida also banned credit card companies from using firearm specific merchant category codes in additional legislation. The credit card legislation became necessary when major issuers signed on to tracking consumer firearms and related purchases with the intent of passing the information on to state and federal agencies.
FL Legislature Prevents End Run
Florida’s legislature recognized that the tracking and reporting of credit card purchases of individual consumers was an opening gambit for digital control. Paying cash prevents governments (state and federal) from controlling consumer choices since the transaction between seller and buyer is private.
Florida HB 35 “Acceptance of Cash Payments by Businesses” requires that retail businesses and certain service companies accept cash payment. The local box retailer, corner store, dress shop, etc. must accept cash if offered for each item/service a consumer wishes to purchase. This legislation, in combination with the banning of credit card tracking, ensures that the citizen’s right to economic choice and privacy are protected by the full power of Florida law.
COS Supports Informed Self-governance
Economic freedom to purchase goods and services without governmental coercion is fundamental to our American values and psyche. COS works to educate an informed citizenry as essential to maintaining our rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We encourage patriots to examine proposed laws and discuss issues with their local legislators so they understand and defend your preferences in current legislation.
You can also help COS by signing the petition to get the federal government back in its proper lane.
