Peach Tree Times

State Representative Terry Cummings (D-Mableton) has been appointed by Speaker Jon Burns (R-Newington) to the House Study Committee on Credit Card Fees on State Sales and Excise Tax and Their Impact on Georgia Merchants and Consumers.

“I am honored to have been selected to serve on this study committee,” said Rep. Cummings. “Our small business owners can be heavily impacted by the merchant fees associated with credit and debit card use. It is vital that we study the effects of these significant fees on small businesses, as well as on the consumer. By protecting Georgia’s businesses and consumers, we can help ensure that our economy thrives and more people want to do business in our state. I look forward to working with my colleagues this interim.”

The House Study Committee on Credit Card Fees on State Sales and Excise Tax and Their Impact on Georgia Merchants and Consumers was established following the adoption of House Resolution 1135 during the 2024 legislative session. The committee will evaluate the effects of electronic transaction costs on Georgia merchants and consumers, specifically examining whether merchant discount fees should apply to the state tax portion of transactions. Additionally, it will assess the impact of these fees on businesses that collect taxes for Georgia, potentially proposing recommendations for legislation prior to the 2025 legislative session.

During the 2024 legislative session, Rep. Cummings introduced House Bill 1505, which aims to limit a merchant’s ability to charge surcharges to customers. She plans to reintroduce this legislation during the 2025 session.

Speaker Burns also appointed other members to the study committee: State Representatives Will Wade (R-Dawsonville), Noel Williams (R-Cordele), Todd Jones (R-South Forsyth); Mr. Kevin Carroll, Mr. Wayne Akins, Dr. Joe Ruhland, Ms. Gina McCollum, Mr. Chandra (CB) Yadav, and Ms. Laura Lanier will serve as non-legislative members.