
US Bitcoin Policy Takes Shape: National Reserve Plan and State Treasury Bills
The U.S. government is making significant strides towards adopting a comprehensive Bitcoin policy, with the introduction of a proposed federal reserve of 1 million BTC and various state-level treasury initiatives gaining momentum. This move marks a crucial turning point in the country’s stance on cryptocurrency.
Senator Cynthia Lummis has taken the lead in proposing the Boosting Innovation, Technology, and Competitiveness Through Optimized Investment Nationwide (BITCOIN) Act of 2024. The bill aims to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve with the goal of acquiring 1 million Bitcoin over the next five years. This reserve would be managed through a network of secure storage vaults and purchase programs. To fund this initiative, the existing Federal Reserve assets will be reallocated.
Notably, the U.S. government already holds an estimated $21 billion in Bitcoin, primarily from seized criminal assets. If the proposed plan comes to fruition, these holdings could potentially be incorporated into the strategic reserve. This move would signify a significant shift in the country’s stance on cryptocurrency and its potential for long-term growth.
In addition to federal initiatives, multiple states are now pursuing their own Bitcoin treasury programs. These state-level efforts demonstrate a growing acceptance of digital assets at various levels of government. The strategies employed vary across jurisdictions, ranging from direct investment proposals to tax payment programs, showcasing diverse approaches to integrating cryptocurrency into government finance.
Ohio and Pennsylvania have made notable progress in this regard, with Ohio advancing initiatives for a Bitcoin reserve while Pennsylvania has proposed legislation allocating up to 10% of its treasury reserves to Bitcoin. The state aims to utilize this strategy as a means of protecting against inflation.
Meanwhile, Texas is taking a different approach by planning to fund its own Bitcoin reserve through donations and enabling Bitcoin payments for taxes and fees. This development aligns with the state’s growing reputation as a hub for cryptocurrency mining operations.
The convergence of these federal and state-level initiatives has led Senator Lummis to express optimism about 2025 being a pivotal year for Bitcoin and digital assets. Her social media posts suggest close collaboration with incoming administration officials, including the potential SEC chair, on comprehensive legislation related to digital assets.
These developments underscore the significant progress made in shaping U.S. Bitcoin policy. As the country’s stance evolves, it will be essential to monitor the impact of these initiatives on institutional investors and individual users alike.
Source: blockonomi.com