Arkansas 2024 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SR17

Introduced
4/10/24  
Passed
4/11/24  
Introduced
4/10/24  

Caption

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

Impact

If enacted, SR17 will specifically reshape the current regulatory landscape for digital asset mining. It stipulates that businesses in this sector must comply with new licensing requirements from the Department of Energy and Environment and adhere to guidelines for environmental and operational standards. This legislation aims to minimize the adverse effects such as excessive noise, substantial electricity usage, and the potential depletion of local water resources, while fostering the growth of the digital asset economy within Arkansas.

Summary

Senate Resolution 17 (SR17) seeks to amend Arkansas law regarding digital asset mining businesses and the regulation of businesses utilizing blockchain networks. This bill intends to implement a comprehensive framework for the licensure, permitting, and regulation of these businesses in order to align with existing state laws while also addressing the unique challenges posed by this emerging industry. As digital asset mining involves significant energy consumption and potential environmental impacts, the bill emphasizes the need for regulatory oversight to protect public interests in Arkansas.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SR17 is its provision prohibiting foreign nationals from owning or operating digital asset mining businesses in Arkansas. This measure is positioned as a protective mechanism against potential cybersecurity threats, but opponents argue it could hinder investment in the state and limit economic opportunities. The tension between fostering innovation in the digital sector and safeguarding local resources and interests will likely be central to discussions as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SR12

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Regulate The Impact On Water Usage And The Electrical Grid By Blockchain Networks And Digital Asset Mining.

AR SR12

TO AUTHORIZE THE INTRODUCTION OF A NONAPPROPRIATION BILL TO REGULATE THE IMPACT ON WATER USAGE AND THE ELECTRICAL GRID BY BLOCKCHAIN NETWORKS AND DIGITAL ASSET MINING.

AR HR1012

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Regulate The Impact On Water Usage And The Electrical Grid By Blockchain Networks And Digital Asset Mining.

AR HR1012

TO AUTHORIZE THE INTRODUCTION OF A NONAPPROPRIATION BILL TO REGULATE THE IMPACT ON WATER USAGE AND THE ELECTRICAL GRID BY BLOCKCHAIN NETWORKS AND DIGITAL ASSET MINING.

AR SB10

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; And To Regulate The Impact On Water Usage And The Electric Grid By Blockchain Networks And Digital Asset Mining.

AR SR7

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Requirements For A Digital Asset Mining Business And Amend The Authority Of A Local Government With Respect To A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR SR7

TO AUTHORIZE THE INTRODUCTION OF A NONAPPROPRIATION BILL TO AMEND THE REQUIREMENTS FOR A DIGITAL ASSET MINING BUSINESS AND AMEND THE AUTHORITY OF A LOCAL GOVERNMENT WITH RESPECT TO A DIGITAL ASSET MINING BUSINESS.

AR HR1013

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Requirements For A Digital Asset Mining Business And Amend The Authority Of A Local Government With Respect To A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR HR1013

TO AUTHORIZE THE INTRODUCTION OF A NONAPPROPRIATION BILL TO AMEND THE REQUIREMENTS FOR A DIGITAL ASSET MINING BUSINESS AND AMEND THE AUTHORITY OF A LOCAL GOVERNMENT WITH RESPECT TO A DIGITAL ASSET MINING BUSINESS.

AR SR10

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Amend The Uniform Money Services Act.

Similar Bills

US HB1664

Deploying American Blockchains Act of 2025

AZ HB2654

Cryptocurrency and blockchain commission

US SB1492

Deploying American Blockchains Act of 2025

AZ SB1045

blockchain technology; tax; fee; prohibition

AZ SB1015

Blockchain technology; tax; fee; prohibition

AZ HB2342

Blockchain technology; regulation; computational power

NH HB639

relative to the use of and disputes over blockchain and digital currencies.