Connecticut Enacts HB7082 Legislation Prohibiting State Treasury from Using Cryptocurrency

Recently, the state of Connecticut unanimously passed House Bill No. 7082 (now known as Public Act No. 25-66), explicitly rejecting the use of cryptocurrency for state government financial activities.

This legislation marks the strongest opposition at the state level to cryptocurrency, prohibiting the use of digital assets as financial funds or payment methods, and becoming the most extensive state-level cryptocurrency ban in the United States.

The new law strictly prohibits all state and municipal agencies from establishing cryptocurrency reserves or accepting digital assets as payment for taxes and fees, effectively cutting off government-supported cryptocurrency projects in Connecticut. Additionally, the bill imposes strict consumer protection regulations on virtual currency service providers.

For instance, companies engaged in cryptocurrency transfers must clearly warn customers that transactions are irreversible, and losses due to fraud or errors may not be recoverable. Furthermore, companies must fully disclose all significant risks and strictly verify the identities of users under 18 years of age.

Moreover, the bill also amends the state's broader financial regulatory laws, introducing new definitions for key digital financial terms such as digital wallets, self-service terminals, and controllers, and requires cryptocurrency businesses licensed in Connecticut to implement enhanced compliance programs in line with the new state standards.

Connecticut's firm stance stands in stark contrast to other states in the United States. Currently, 31 states are reviewing Bitcoin reserve bills, with 16 states making progress and 8 states vetoing similar measures. Although some vetoed bills may be resubmitted and reconsidered, Connecticut's legislative ban is notable for its extensive and decisive restrictions.

Meanwhile, New Hampshire last month officially became the first state in the U.S. to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve. On May 6, Governor Kelly Ayotte signed House Bill No. 302, allowing the state treasury to invest 5% of its funds in Bitcoin and other digital assets with a market capitalization exceeding $500 billion, with Bitcoin being the only qualifying asset at present. The bill is inspired by the Satoshi Action policy framework and aims to achieve fiscal responsibility and reserve diversification through secure and regulated custody.

What do you think about this difference in state-level policies?