Last week, the Commission on the Future of Payments and Sales Transactions by Credit Cards and the Impacts on Small Business held its first public hearing. The goal of the commission is to hear from small business owners and other interested parties regarding the impact of credit card swipe fees. NFIB Massachusetts State Director Christopher Carlozzi is serving as a commissioner.

A wide range of business owners from across Massachusetts offered insightful comments on how swipe fee costs are negatively affecting their business. A panel of retailers explained to commissioners how charge backs work. A group of restaurateurs demonstrated how swipe fees are now a larger part of their budget than utility expenses. Fraud prevention was also a prominent topic of conversation from many testifying.

The commission plans to hold at least two more public hearings to gather more information to present to legislative leadership. Right now there are several bills pending on whether Massachusetts will allow businesses to charge convenience fees like the vast majority of states, bills to prohibit swipe fees on taxes and tips, and other card related legislation.