News

U.S. Lawmakers Name Ripple in Push to Overhaul $93 Trillion ACH Network

Published by
Debashree Patra and Anjali Belgaumkar

Ripple was mentioned during a recent U.S. House Financial Services Committee hearing, bringing blockchain-based payments into focus at the policy level.

During the session “Innovation at the Speed of Markets,” Representative Sam Liccardo questioned Randall Guynn, Director at the Federal Reserve Division of Supervision and Regulation, on whether they are moving quickly enough to modernize payment systems, citing Ripple as a real-world example of faster and cheaper transaction technology.

Lawmakers Push for Faster Payment Systems

The discussion focused on improving the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network, which handles payroll, bill payments, and business transfers across the U.S. 

Liccardo pointed to industry-backed ideas, saying: “We’ve heard that from Intuit and from Ripple… the idea of imposing pre-funding of ACH transactions.”

His remarks show that there is growing pressure on regulators to adopt solutions that reduce delays and improve efficiency.

Ripple’s Fed Proposal Gains Attention

Ripple’s mention in Congress links back to its February 2026 proposal to the Federal Reserve. The company suggested introducing pre-funded ACH accounts for stablecoin issuers like RLUSD.

This model requires issuers to hold full reserves before processing transactions, allowing near-instant settlement while removing counterparty risk. It also reduces reliance on traditional banking intermediaries.

$93 Trillion Market at Stake

The ACH network remains one of the largest payment systems globally, processing around $93 trillion in transactions in 2025, including over $61 trillion in credit payments.

Even a small change toward blockchain-based rails could move notable volume on-chain, which is why lawmakers are increasingly focused on upgrading the system.

Ripple was not alone in the discussion. Companies like Visa and Intuit also contributed ideas. Suggestions included pre-funding requirements, transaction limits, and stronger monitoring tools to reduce risk and improve settlement speed. 

What This Means for Crypto Adoption

Overall, Ripple’s mention in a congressional hearing signals growing interest in blockchain solutions within traditional finance. As regulators explore ways to improve payment infrastructure, proposals like pre-funded ACH and stablecoin integration could play a larger role in shaping the future of U.S. payments.

FAQs

Why was Ripple mentioned in a congressional hearing?

Rep. Sam Liccardo cited Ripple as an example of faster, cheaper payment technology while questioning regulators on modernizing the U.S. ACH network.

What is the ACH network and why is it being upgraded?

ACH is a key U.S. payment system for payroll and transfers. Lawmakers want upgrades to reduce delays, lower costs, and improve efficiency.

What does pre-funded ACH mean for stablecoin issuers?

It means stablecoin issuers must hold full reserves before processing payments, enabling faster settlements without relying on traditional banking middlemen.

Debashree Patra and Anjali Belgaumkar

Fun-loving and cheerful, a passionate blockchain and crypto writer who knows no boundary…connect if you share the same passion. With 10+ years of writing experience, I am a Crypto Journalist by chance, exploring, and learning all the dynamics of the sci-fi action-filled crypto world. Currently, focusing on cryptocurrency news and price data. With a passion for research and challenging my capabilities, I am slowly getting into the crypto arena to bring new insights every day.

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