Crypto Industry Fears ‘Gensler-Era Crackdown’ With New SEC Authority in CLARITY Act

The cryptocurrency industry is expressing alarm following the addition of a controversial section to the CLARITY Act, a bill aimed at providing clarity on crypto regulation. A major hearing on the act is scheduled for June 10, 2025, before the U.S. House Financial Services Committee, where lawmakers will debate and vote on several financial bills. This amendment introduces a significant shift in regulatory authority, removing existing exemptions for older tokens and giving the SEC full oversight of all cryptocurrencies, leading to concerns about a renewed crackdown by the SEC under Chair Gary Gensler’s leadership. The move is being met with criticism from those who argue it undermines the CLARITY Act’s purpose of eliminating regulatory uncertainty and could impede industry development. Critics point out that this shift brings back the confusion and risks associated with the past, hindering progress in the sector. Crypto advocates advocate for clear-cut rules based on technical features or network maturity to avoid arbitrary enforcement and maintain a competitive edge.