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.
HR 1013 is a House Resolution that authorizes introduction of a separate nonappropriation bill to revise Arkansas law governing digital asset mining businesses and businesses using blockchain networks. The underlying bill would amend the Arkansas Data Centers Act of 2023, rename it the “Arkansas Data Centers Act of 2023 Digital Asset Mining Act,” and update legislative findings and definitions related to data centers, blockchain, and digital currency.
Substantively, the proposal would set statewide operating requirements for digital asset mining businesses, including payment of applicable taxes and fees, compliance with state and federal law, utility rules and rates, and noise-reduction measures. It would also allow certain home digital asset mining activity, clarify that miners are not money transmitters under the Uniform Money Services Act, and restrict local governments from banning home mining or requiring local approval before it occurs. The bill also creates a private right of action for nearby property owners to enforce noise-reduction requirements and allows attorney’s fees for prevailing plaintiffs.
If enacted as described, the bill would significantly narrow local control over digital asset mining and home mining, while preserving some local authority over zoning and certain utility-related matters. It would amend Arkansas Code §§ 14-1-601 through 14-1-605, change the title and structure of the existing data centers law, and add or revise standards for noise mitigation, siting, and utility compliance. It would also affect the Arkansas Public Service Commission by directing rulemaking and limiting discriminatory rates for blockchain-related customers, and it would provide legal protections and compliance obligations for mining businesses, homeowners, local governments, utilities, and neighboring landowners.
The available history shows no recorded committee transcript or vote count, but the bill’s framing suggests a generally pro-industry approach toward digital asset mining and blockchain businesses. The measure appears designed to provide regulatory certainty and protect mining operations from local restrictions, which is typically favored by industry supporters. At the same time, the inclusion of noise controls, distance requirements, and enforcement rights for neighbors indicates an effort to address community concerns.
The main points of contention are likely local control, neighborhood impacts, and utility regulation. Local governments would lose authority to prohibit home digital asset mining or require prior approval, and they would be limited in imposing decibel standards or special requirements on mining businesses. Opponents may view this as preemption of municipal zoning and nuisance authority, while supporters may argue it prevents inconsistent local barriers to a lawful industry. Nearby property owners and residential communities may also be concerned about noise, siting, and potential strain on electric or water systems, even though the bill includes mitigation requirements.