North Dakota Senate Passes Crypto ATM Bill, Capping Daily Transactions at $2,000
The North Dakota House initially approved a crypto ATM bill with more relaxed transaction limits for users.
Key Takeaways:
Right to Self-Custody: The law guarantees individuals the right to self-custody their digital assets using self-hosted wallets, ensuring personal control over cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin without needing third-party intermediaries.
Protection for Mining Activities: HB 701 prohibits local governments from enacting discriminatory zoning laws that could impede digital asset mining operations. This provision ensures that Bitcoin miners can operate freely without facing unfair regulatory barriers.
Regulatory Clarity and Exemptions: The legislation clarifies that digital asset mining and staking are not classified as securities under Kentucky law. Additionally, it exempts home-based Bitcoin miners and digital asset mining businesses from the state’s money transmitter licensing requirements, reducing regulatory hurdles for individuals and companies in the cryptocurrency space.
Kentucky has taken a significant step toward embracing cryptocurrency, as Governor Andy Beshear signed the ‘Bitcoin Rights’ bill into law.
Overview
On March 25 2025, the Satoshi Action Fund stated on X that House Bill 701 safeguards the rights to self-custody, operate a node, and utilise digital assets without the risk of discrimination. The legislation, which aims to provide legal protections for Bitcoin (BTC) users and miners, positions the state as a potential hub for digital asset innovation. This move aligns with Kentucky’s broader strategy to attract investment and technological advancements in the blockchain sector.
Kentucky’s Push for Bitcoin-Friendly Legislation
The law establishes a clear regulatory framework for BTC, ensuring that individuals and businesses can transact and mine crypto without undue restrictions. Kentucky has been actively working to create a favourable environment for BTC mining, leveraging its relatively low electricity costs to attract industry players.
The bill underscores the state’s commitment to protecting financial sovereignty and preventing discrimination against BTC users. Specifically, the legislation prevents state and local governments from imposing restrictions on individuals who use BTC for transactions. It also grants BTC miners legal protections, ensuring they are not unfairly targeted by regulations that could stifle innovation. Additionally, the bill clarifies that BTC mining operations should be treated as legitimate business activities under state law.
Impact on Bitcoin Mining and Innovation
Kentucky has become a hotspot for BTC mining due to its energy resources and business-friendly policies. By signing the ‘BTC Rights’ bill into law, the state solidifies its position as one of the most attractive locations in the United States for BTC-related activities.
The legislation is expected to encourage further investments in mining infrastructure, leading to job creation and economic growth. BTC miners require stable regulatory conditions to operate efficiently, and this bill ensures they can conduct their businesses without facing unexpected legal hurdles. Kentucky hopes to draw more blockchain-based enterprises by fostering a favourable regulatory environment, further integrating digital assets into the state’s economy.
Broader Implication for Crypto Regulation
The passage of the ‘BTC Rights’ bill in Kentucky could set a precedent for other states considering similar legislative measures. As the federal government continues to debate crypto regulations, states are taking independent steps to establish their policies. Kentucky’s approach highlights the growing recognition of BTC as a legitimate financial asset and technological innovation.
The bill’s success may inspire other jurisdictions to adopt crypto-friendly policies, accelerating the mainstream adoption of BTC and related technologies. Meanwhile, industry stakeholders view the law as a step toward regulatory clarity, reducing uncertainty for businesses and investors.
As Kentucky leads the charge in securing Bitcoin rights, the future of cryptocurrency legislation in the United States remains dynamic and evolving. With more states likely to follow suit, Bitcoin’s legal status continues to gain traction, reinforcing its role in the broader financial ecosystem.