The idea of a Bitcoin reserve is sparking debate in the U.S. Some see it as the future of digital assets, while others question its relevance to the U.S. economy. Amid these discussions, several states are exploring former President Trump’s Bitcoin Reserve strategy.
Leading the way is Ohio, where State Representative Derek Merrin has introduced the Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act (HB 703), a groundbreaking proposal.
Introduced on December 17, 2024, the Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act would allow the state treasurer to invest in Bitcoin as part of Ohio’s financial reserves. The bill doesn’t require Bitcoin investments but gives the treasurer flexibility to diversify the state’s asset portfolio.
Merrin sees this as a crucial step to protect taxpayer funds from losing value due to the declining strength of the U.S. dollar. He describes Bitcoin as “digital property rights for everyone” and envisions it as a modern solution to economic challenges while strengthening Ohio’s financial position.
Merrin argues that adopting Bitcoin could help Ohio guard against inflation and economic instability. The proposed plan aims to preserve taxpayer money and offers a new approach to managing the state’s finances. By including Bitcoin in its reserves, the state could potentially benefit from lower interest rates and greater financial security.
Though the bill was introduced just weeks before the current legislative session ends on December 31, Merrin plans to reintroduce it in January 2025 during the next session. He hopes this proposal will provide Ohio lawmakers with a clear strategy for integrating Bitcoin into the state’s financial planning.
Ohio isn’t the only state looking into Bitcoin for its savings. Texas has come up with the “Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Act,” which plans to keep Bitcoin as a long-term asset for at least five years. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania wants to invest up to 10% of its treasury in Bitcoin, believing it could help manage its finances in economic challenges.
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Merrin, who holds a top “A” rating from Coinbase’s Stand With Crypto initiative, advocates for a modern regulatory framework to protect individuals’ rights to own and trade digital assets. He believes adopting Bitcoin isn’t just a financial move but a forward-thinking step toward embracing the future of money.
If the Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act becomes law, it could position the state as a leader in digital asset innovation while offering protection against financial risks.
With growing momentum behind Bitcoin reserve strategies, many believe it’s only a matter of time before digital assets become a key part of state finances.
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