SB1554, titled the “Make Sense Not Cents Act,” would prohibit the Secretary of the Treasury from minting or issuing new 1-cent coins. The bill also includes a congressional finding stating that Congress has the sole authority to coin money and regulate currency, and it makes conforming changes to federal statutes that currently reference the penny in the coinage code and related tax provisions.
Importantly, the bill does not eliminate the penny as legal tender. Existing one-cent coins would remain valid for all debts, public and private, taxes, and duties, regardless of when they were minted. In practical terms, the measure would end future production of pennies while preserving their continued use in commerce and for legal obligations.
Impact
If enacted, the bill would amend title 31 of the U.S. Code to remove the statutory authority for minting or issuing 1-cent coins and would update cross-references in federal coinage and Internal Revenue Code provisions that currently account for pennies. The measure would affect the Treasury Department and the U.S. Mint by stopping new penny production, but it would not change the legal status of existing pennies as legal tender. Businesses, consumers, and government entities could still accept and use pennies for payments and tax obligations.
Sentiment
The available context suggests the bill is framed in a practical, cost-conscious way, with the bipartisan sponsorship by Senators Merkley and Lee indicating some cross-party interest in ending penny production. The bill’s title and structure imply a generally favorable or reform-oriented sentiment toward eliminating a coin many view as inefficient or outdated. No committee transcript or vote record is available here, so there is no recorded opposition or formal vote outcome to gauge broader sentiment.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely whether Congress should discontinue penny minting at all, balancing arguments about cost savings and efficiency against concerns about pricing, cash transactions, and the symbolic role of the penny. Another possible issue is the bill’s reference to Congress’s sole authority over coinage, which may reflect a constitutional or institutional framing that some members could view as unnecessary or significant. Because no hearing transcript or vote history is provided, specific objections from legislators, industry groups, or consumer advocates are not documented in the available record.