This is why our credit card companies are screwed up!

[juvy]

dangerous, best for establishments to set some strict rules when paying using credit card

[disneysteve]

Is this a new rule?

Merchants have routinely violated credit card agreements for years. For example, I know many places that had a minimum charge which is legal now but wasn't for many years but they did it anyway. Unless someone takes the time to report them, and the credit card company takes action, they just keep doing it. There are lots of rules that simply aren't enforced.