A Bill to limit the number of self-checkout lanes in grocery stores and to provide consumers with a discount for using this method of payment has been introduced into the Rhode Island Legislature.  According to the Sponsor Rep. Megan Cotter, “Self-checkout is a way grocery stores are avoiding paying employees by getting customers to do cashier’s jobs for free.”

Predictably the Bill is opposed by retailers and questions the authority of the State to become involved in the operation of grocery stores and other businesses.

Consumers resist using self-checkout, especially with more than ten items. This is especially the case with deficient barcoding of items including fruit and vegetables. Retailers are finding difficulty in employing suitable cashiers in many areas even with high wage rates and other incentives. 

By the same token resistance to self-order kiosks in QSRs places limits on replacement of counter attendants.  With respect to grocery stores, “just walk out”.  Electronic scanning appears to be a reasonable alternative although requiring an initial capital cost and maintenance.