A growing divide is emerging among US states over how to approach digital assets, with some jurisdictions warming up to Bitcoin and blockchain innovation, while others are slamming the brakes.
This has become particularly evident in how Connecticut and Louisiana offer contrasting responses to the evolving crypto economy through recent legislative efforts.
No Bitcoin reserve for Connecticut
Connecticut lawmakers introduced a sweeping new measure preventing the state from holding or using digital currencies.
The bill, known as HB7082, received unanimous approval from both legislative chambers on June 10 and will take effect by October.
The new law bars state agencies from investing in or transacting with any virtual currency, including Bitcoin. It also prohibits using crypto for payments to the state and prevents public entities from requiring payment in digital assets.
According to the bill:
“Neither the state nor any political subdivision of the state shall (1) accept or require payment in the form of virtual currency for an amount due to the state or the political subdivision, or (2) purchase, hold, invest in or establish a reserve of virtual currency.”
Meanwhile, in addition to banning crypto in government operations, the Connecticut law also imposes new compliance rules on money transmitters and crypto service providers operating in the state.
These firms will now face more stringent licensing requirements and mandatory risk disclosures. Companies must display visible warnings to users, cautioning them that crypto transactions are irreversible and losses from scams or errors may not be recoverable.
The legislation includes added consumer protections, such as age verification for users under 18 and mandatory transparency around transaction terms.
Louisiana explores crypto
While Connecticut moves to restrict crypto, Louisiana is leaning into the future of digital technologies.
On June 10, the state’s House of Representatives passed a resolution establishing a task force to study blockchain technology and artificial intelligence.
The lawmakers acknowledged that nearly 20% of Americans now hold crypto, highlighting the need to understand its opportunities and risks.
Considering this, the newly formed committee will explore potential applications of blockchain and AI and the regulatory frameworks required to manage their growth.
Louisiana’s task force will host public hearings to collect insights from industry experts, businesses, and local communities as part of its mandate.
The group will deliver its findings and policy recommendations to the state legislature by February 2026.
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