(a) Every person, firm, or corporation doing business in this state, except railroad companies as provided in 21-5-1 et seq. of this code, shall settle with its employees at least twice every month in a manner of the person, firm, or corporations choosing, as set forth in subsection (b) of this section, and with no more than 19 days between settlements, unless otherwise provided by special agreement, and pay them the wages due, less authorized deductions and authorized wage assignments, for their work or services.
(b) Payment required in subsection (a) of this section shall be made by the person, firm, or corporation in one of the following ways:
(1) In lawful money of the United States;