California Bill Aims to Make Bitcoin Official State Currency
South Carolina Bill Aims to Make Bitcoin a State Reserve Asset
A new bill introduced in the South Carolina House of Representatives aims to make Bitcoin a state reserve asset, a move that could pave the way for the state to hold the cryptocurrency in its treasury.
The bill, H. 3978, was introduced by Representative Brandon Michael on February 3 and has since been referred to the Committee on Ways and Means. The legislation would allow the state to hold and manage Bitcoin as a reserve asset, similar to how it currently manages gold and other precious metals.
According to the bill's language, the state's reserve asset would be managed by the State Treasurer and would be used to "diversify the state's financial portfolio" and "enhance the state's economic stability."
The move is seen as a major step forward for cryptocurrency adoption in the United States. If passed, South Carolina would become the first state in the country to officially recognize Bitcoin as a reserve asset.
"By recognizing the value of Bitcoin as a reserve asset, South Carolina is taking a bold step towards embracing the future of finance," said Representative Michael in a statement. "This move will not only benefit the state's treasury but also send a message to the world that South Carolina is a forward-thinking state that is committed to innovation and progress."
The bill has received support from the cryptocurrency community, with many seeing it as a major step forward for the industry.
"This is a huge deal for the cryptocurrency community," said Alex Kruger, a cryptocurrency analyst and trader. "If South Carolina passes this bill, it will set a precedent for other states to follow. It's a major win for Bitcoin and a sign that the world is slowly but surely embracing cryptocurrency."
The bill is currently under review by the Committee on Ways and Means and has not yet been scheduled for a vote. However, if passed, it would take effect on July 1, 2023.