While this is reasonable, the means through which it is achieved is very concerning. Let us remember that this executive overreach is currently denying some leg

While this is reasonable, the means through which it is achieved is very concerning. Let us remember that this executive overreach is currently denying some legal residents their first amendment rights (for protesting against a hostile foreign nation), and is impairing funding for universities. While paper checks might lead to fraud, enforcing electronic payments deny citizens once again a form of liberty. Banks fold pretty easily at the whim of an autocrat, so you get "less control" over spending your money. Ultimately, there has to be balance between ownership and privacy (which is achieved through cash and checks for instance), and electronic payments (ultimate control, at the mercy of banks, a working connection, a valid bank account etc). The greater the requirements, the less free you are. Although given recent events, freedom itself comes with fine marks (no research on vaccines, no criticism of Is--ll). I care deeply about this community, so I recommend most HN users diversify your savings (do not just put everything into one account. Freezing bank assets can be done real easily (and remotely) and can destroy lives). Also, be very mindful of any criticism of the current admin (if you are a Federal employee) or of a foreign nation (I---l). AI is currently being used to find keywords and track down dissent. I know two recent graduates who were hired in the last two weeks, moved to D-si and are working on these (currently focused on federal employees and International/legal residents that are critical of current admin and I---l). Try using alternative words and a VPN at the VERY least