How will the Common Cents Act eliminate one-cent coin usage?
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Common Cents Act in a unanimous vote, mandating the permanent elimination of the one-cent coin. The legislation establishes a new framework for rounding cash transactions to the nearest five cents. While existing pennies remain legal tender, the bill requires that cash wages be rounded upwards if the total is not divisible by five cents.
The U.S. Mint ceased production of the penny in November 2025. This legislative action codifies the change, preventing future administrations from reversing the policy. The Treasury estimates an immediate annual savings of $56 million, as the cost to produce a single penny had risen to more than three times its face value.
What are the next steps for U.S. currency?
The bill includes a provision allowing the U.S. Mint to produce nickels using cheaper materials to further reduce costs. To protect consumers, the legislation directs the Treasury to monitor the impact of these changes on low-income individuals, older consumers, and those without traditional banking access. The bill was led by Rep. Lisa McClain and Rep. Robert Garcia to modernize U.S. currency.
