California Revolutionizes Crypto Taxes: State Takes Custody of Abandoned Coins

California lawmakers have sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency market with a pair of groundbreaking bills passed this week. The legislation, which now heads to the Senate for final approval, will fundamentally change how digital assets are handled in America’s most populous state. The first bill (AB 1052) allows California to seize abandoned crypto held on exchanges after three years and store it in a state-controlled wallet. Unlike unclaimed property, however, this cryptocurrency remains untouched until claimed by its owner. 2nd bill (AB 1180), opens the door for state agencies to accept Bitcoin and other digital currencies as payment for taxes and fees, beginning in July 2026. The pilot program is expected to run through 2031 and includes reporting on transaction volume, technical issues, and consumer feedback by 2028.”