Gov. Jim Douglas decided not to sign S.138, a bill that will allow merchants to place a $10 minimum limit on credit card purchases. Though Douglas said he sympathizes with retailers who are disgruntled about processing fees charged by credit card companies, he says national legislation would better address the problem. Douglas also said the minimum purchase requirement could hamper retail sales in Vermont. The bill, which is the first in the nation to place limits on credit card use, will become law without Douglas’ signature, and it goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2011.
