Cash is Still King: Moul Bill Protects Pennsylvanians’ Right to Pay with Dollars at School Events

Ensuring Fair Access for All Pennsylvanians

In a victory for accessibility and common sense, legislation sponsored by Rep. Dan Moul ensuring that Pennsylvania schools must accept cash as payment for admission to school-sponsored events has officially become law.

House Bill 685, introduced by Moul in March, was crafted in response to a growing trend among schools across the Commonwealth that had moved to cashless systems for ticket sales. Many school districts required attendees to use credit or debit cards, or to purchase tickets through online apps—a policy that, according to Moul, unfairly excluded seniors, lower-income families, and children who may not have access to credit cards or smartphones.

“This law restores fairness and convenience,” Moul said. “Cash remains legal tender, and no one should be turned away from supporting their children or community simply because they don’t have a credit card or app.”

Protecting Privacy and Personal Choice

Beyond accessibility concerns, Moul also highlighted the privacy implications of digital-only ticketing. Online purchases often require users to share personal details, from email addresses to payment information, creating unnecessary risks—particularly for senior citizens who are frequent targets of online scams.

“For many Pennsylvanians, paying cash isn’t about convenience—it’s about safety and peace of mind,” Moul explained. “People shouldn’t have to give up their personal data just to attend a high school football game or school concert.”

The move to restore cash as an acceptable form of payment is also a recognition of those who simply prefer to manage their finances offline. As society shifts further toward digital dependency, Moul’s legislation stands as a reminder that traditional options still matter—and that not every transaction requires an internet connection.

Broad Bipartisan Support and Public Approval

Since its introduction, Moul’s bill has received widespread bipartisan support and positive feedback from citizens across the state. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle recognized the importance of maintaining inclusive payment options, particularly in communities where broadband access or digital literacy remains limited.

The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) also took notice. The organization, which had previously mandated that tickets be purchased exclusively online, recently reversed that policy in response to the bill’s momentum in the General Assembly.

“This is a great example of the legislative process working the way it should,” Moul noted. “We listened to our constituents, found common ground, and made a simple fix that will have a big impact in communities across Pennsylvania.”

From Bill to Law

House Bill 685 was ultimately folded into this year’s Education Code, which was passed as part of the 2025–26 state budget package. Governor Josh Shapiro signed the measure into law today, officially enacting Moul’s commonsense reform.

With the law now in effect, schools throughout the Commonwealth will be required to accept cash for ticketed events such as athletic games, theater performances, and other school-sponsored activities. The measure ensures that all Pennsylvanians—regardless of income, age, or access to technology—can continue to take part in their local community and support their students.

“Schools are the heart of our towns,” Moul said. “They bring people together. This law ensures everyone can show up, pay fairly, and participate—just like they always have.”

A Win for Community Connection

At its core, the new law isn’t just about money—it’s about maintaining community ties and ensuring that no one is left out. As Pennsylvania schools continue to modernize operations, Moul’s legislation underscores that innovation should never come at the expense of inclusion.

In an age of digital everything, House Bill 685 preserves one timeless truth: sometimes, there’s still no substitute for a few dollars in your wallet.