America’s casino industry group is calling on state gaming regulators to consider allowing operators to accept more cashless payments to lessen the risk of further COVID-19 transmission.

On Tuesday, the American Gaming Association (AGA) released its new Payments Modernization Policy Principles, a seven-point plan for reducing the need for casino operators to handle the majority of their financial transactions using what is now widely regarded as even filthier lucre in the form of paper bank notes.

The AGA announced last week that over 60% of US casinos have reopened following their lengthy pandemic shutdowns. Business to date at these reopened casinos has been hindered by (not always observed) social distancing requirements and AGA survey data shows 57% of casino visitors want the option of being able to avoid handling cash during their visit.

The AGA also believes that digital payment options will allow gamblers to set spending limits in advance and better monitor their gambling activity. Providing customers with more payment options will also help “reduce the current friction between gaming and non-gaming segments of an integrated resort.”