House of Representatives votes to eliminate 1-cent coin

<p>The House of Representatives voted on September 14, 2026, to eliminate the 1-cent coin by passing the bipartisan Common Cents Act in a unanimous vote. This legislation will prevent the Treasury from minting any more pennies, except for collector coins, and will establish a framework for rounding cash transactions to the nearest 5 cents to eliminate the need for pennies.</p><p>Under the new bill, cash wages will be rounded upwards if the total is not divisible by 5 cents. Existing pennies will remain legal tender. The U.S. Mint ceased production of pennies in November 2025 after 232 years of circulation. If signed into law by President Donald Trump, this act would prevent future administrations from reversing the decision.</p><p>The cost of minting pennies has increased significantly, with production costs exceeding three times their value as of 2025. The Treasury estimates that eliminating the penny could save approximately $56 million annually.</p><p>The bill was introduced by House GOP Conference Chair Lisa McClain, R-Mich., and Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., who is the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee. This legislation builds on a previous bill led by McClain that also aimed to stop minting the penny but did not include provisions for rounding cash payments.</p><p>Additionally, the bill allows the U.S. Mint to produce nickels using cheaper materials. Congress will also monitor the impact of this new rule on various groups, including low-income individuals and older consumers, by directing the Treasury to assess its effects.</p>