Ohio Pushes Crypto Regulation With Bitcoin Payments and State Reserve Fund

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From pushing a state cryptocurrency reserve fund to accepting Bitcoin for payments, Ohio is embracing digital currency with strong political support. Led by Republican Treasurer Robert Sprague, the state is rolling out initiatives designed to make cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin more mainstream. 

These efforts aim to allow residents to pay state taxes, government fees, and campaign donations in crypto, while modernizing Ohio’s financial systems for a faster, more efficient way of handling money.

New Cryptocurrency Bills Aim to Modernize Ohio’s Financial System

Local lawmakers have introduced multiple bills supporting this digital currency push. Senate Bill 57 proposes creating a Bitcoin reserve fund to facilitate tax payments and donations in cryptocurrency. 

Ohio House Bill 116 would allow residents to use digital assets for everyday purchases while offering tax protections. House Bill 18 grants the treasurer authority to invest in high-value digital assets, and House Bill 426 sets clear rules for handling “abandoned” cryptocurrency.

“These bills are about creating a safer, regulated framework for cryptocurrency in Ohio,” Sprague said. “We want to provide residents and businesses the ability to use digital assets without risking security or transparency.”

Ohio Balances Crypto Adoption 

While Sprague champions cryptocurrency, some lawmakers are cautious. Speaker Matt Huffman and Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn voiced concerns about crypto’s volatility and historical misuse. The FBI reported $9.3 billion in crypto-related cybercrime in 2024, highlighting potential risks.

Sprague emphasizes, “Every crypto payment will be immediately converted to U.S. dollars. Our approach combines technological innovation with financial security, ensuring that Ohioans can participate safely in the digital economy.”

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Ohio’s History With Cryptocurrency and Political Influence

Ohio has a history of experimenting with cryptocurrency. In 2018, then-car salesman Bernie Moreno, now a U.S. senator, paid his taxes in crypto, making Ohio the first U.S. state to accept digital currency for tax payments. Although the program was paused due to procedural issues, it demonstrated Ohio’s willingness to explore blockchain-based financial solutions. Sprague believes it’s time to revive and expand this effort.

Adding a political dimension, Sprague currently running for Secretary of State, plans to accept crypto donations in his campaign, making him the first candidate in Ohio to do so. GOP-endorsed governor candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has also championed cryptocurrency, presenting it as both a financial tool and a symbol of technological innovation.

Sprague notes, “By embracing cryptocurrency now, Ohio can gain a technological and economic edge that will benefit residents, businesses, and the state’s future financial ecosystem, especially during challenging economic times.”

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