They added, “We look forward to answering the judge’s questions to ensure that this relief applies to all financial institutions involved in the Illinois payment system, so the customers they serve will also be protected from the harm IFPA will cause if it is allowed to move forward.”
The Merchants Payments Coalition also issued a statement celebrating the ruling Friday and noting that three of its member associations have asked to join the suit. MPC Executive Committee member Doug Kantor said in the statement, “Illinois small businesses and their customers, along with workers who depend on tips, will benefit from protection against Visa and Mastercard’s abusive swipe fees under this law.”
“The judge agreed that Visa and Mastercard cannot burden businesses and consumers with fees on taxes and tips,” said Kantor, who’s also the general counsel for the National Association of Convenience Stores. “The card industry will still collect billions in swipe fees in Illinois alone under this law, but it is a key first step in bringing swipe fees under control. We look forward to the law taking effect against Visa and Mastercard in July.”
