Pennsylvania Enacts Bill Restricting Crypto Holdings for Public Officials

A new bill from Pennsylvania Representative Ben Waxman aims to prevent potential conflicts of interest in the cryptocurrency market by restricting public officials and their families’ crypto holdings. HB1812 prohibits officials from owning, trading, or promoting digital assets with a financial interest while in office and for one year following their term. This legislation comes amid concerns about political profiteering in the crypto space, particularly after former President Trump was accused of benefiting from cryptocurrency schemes. The bill includes a 90-day divestiture period and potential penalties of up to $50,000 and five years imprisonment. While HB1812 seeks to ensure ethical conduct in public service, critics worry it might deter individuals with expertise in cryptocurrencies from entering the realm of public office. As for reactions, no official responses have been made by Trump or any related parties. The cryptocurrency market has remained largely unaffected, with minimal response from influential figures and organizations.