TO AUTHORIZE THE INTRODUCTION OF A NONAPPROPRIATION BILL TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF A COMPUTER MANUFACTURED BY A COVERED FOREIGN ENTITY IN DIGITAL ASSET MINING AND PROHIBIT THE USE OF CERTAIN SOFTWARE IN DIGITAL ASSET MINING.
Impact
If enacted, HR1010 will amend existing Arkansas laws, specifically the Arkansas Data Centers Act of 2023, to introduce new definitions and guidelines governing the use of technology in digital asset mining. Digital asset miners will face strict penalties for breaching the provisions of this resolution, making it a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense and escalating to a Class D felony for subsequent offenses. This significant legal framework aims to enhance the state's digital infrastructure security and compliance with federal regulations.
Summary
House Resolution 1010 (HR1010) seeks to prohibit the use of computers and software manufactured or developed by covered foreign entities in the realm of digital asset mining. The resolution is motivated primarily by national security concerns and aims to restrict potential threats from foreign influence, particularly from nations like China and Russia. By defining 'covered foreign entities', HR1010 aims to bolster the cybersecurity posture of digital asset mining operations across Arkansas.
Contention
The bill has garnered a mix of support and criticism. Proponents argue that it is essential for safeguarding state and national interests against possible espionage and cybersecurity threats from foreign entities. Conversely, critics express concerns that such prohibitive measures may hinder technological innovation and the growth of the digital economy in Arkansas. The discussion around HR1010 highlights the balancing act between protecting state interests and fostering an environment conducive to technological advancement.
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.
To Prevent A Foreign-party-controlled Business From Leasing Land; And To Prohibit A Prohibited Foreign Party From Holding An Interest In Real Property Or Agricultural Land In Certain Circumstances.
To Prohibit The Procurement By A Governmental Entity Of An Electric Vehicle Or A Component Of An Electric Vehicle That Was Manufactured In Whole Or In Part Using Forced Labor.
To Create The End Organ And Genomic Harvesting Act; To Prohibit Coverage Of Certain Human Organ Transplant Or Post-transplant Care; And To Prohibit Certain Genetic Sequencers And Genetic Analysis Technologies.
To Amend The Law Concerning The Assessment And Collection Of Taxes By The Secretary Of The Department Of Finance And Administration; And To Prohibit The Assessment Of Sales And Use Tax In Certain Circumstances.