The Arkansas Senate has rejected a bill banning bitcoin mining near military bases, keeping digital asset operations unrestricted despite national security concerns.
Legislators Vote Against Restricting Digital Asset Mining Operations
The Arkansas Senate has rejected Senate Bill 60, which sought to ban bitcoin mining operations within 30 miles of military facilities due to national security concerns. The bill, introduced by Senator Hill and Representative Evans, aimed to amend the Arkansas Data Centers Act of 2023 by restricting digital asset mining businesses near key military installations.
Proposed Bitcoin Mining Restrictions Rejected
If enacted, SB 60 would have prevented new cryptocurrency mining operations from obtaining permits near military bases while forcing existing operations to shut down unless they were permitted before Dec. 31, 2024. Military facilities named in the bill included:
- Little Rock Air Force Base
- Camp Joseph T. Robinson Maneuver Training Center
- Ebbing Air National Guard Base
- Fort Chaffee Joint Maneuver Training Center
- Pine Bluff Arsenal
Security Concerns and Regulatory Oversight
The legislation defined “operation” as any entity generating revenue by securing a blockchain network, effectively targeting commercial bitcoin mining businesses. The Arkansas Attorney General would have had authority to investigate violations, issue subpoenas, and shut down non-compliant businesses, while the Oil and Gas Commission would have overseen permit revocations.
Supporters argued that crypto mining near military installations posed risks to national security and infrastructure. The bill’s emergency clause emphasized that regulating mining operations was essential for public safety.
Arkansas Senate Decision Leaves Crypto Mining Unrestricted
Despite these concerns, the Senate voted to reject the bill, allowing bitcoin mining businesses to continue operating without additional geographic restrictions. The decision highlights the ongoing debate between economic development and regulatory oversight in the growing digital asset industry.
Stay informed about future cryptocurrency regulations in Arkansas and beyond as lawmakers continue to address the evolving industry.
