Assembly OKs bill directing DFS to cap ATM surcharges at casinos and college campuses

The Assembly passed legislation on March 24 directing the Department of Financial Services to establish reasonable limits on ATM transaction surcharges at casinos and on college campuses and to require institutions that host ATMs to investigate and address consumer complaints.

Sponsor Assemblymember Vannell said the move targets a captive audience where patrons and students often have no practical alternative to access cash; the sponsor cited observed average casino ATM fees of about $10 and campus fees above $5 as evidence of excessive charges.

Critics cautioned the bill could prompt ATM operators to remove machines if fees are capped below business costs and urged careful rulemaking. The bill delegates substantive fee‑setting to DFS rulemaking, with the sponsor stressing that stakeholders will have a chance to comment during the administrative process. The measure includes a $250 per knowing‑violation penalty.

The Assembly recorded a floor vote: Ayes 102, Nays 39, and the bill was passed. DFS will be responsible for drafting and adjusting the cap and enforcement procedures.