Pennsylvania Lawmakers Propose Ban on Crypto for Officials, Focus on Transparency

Pennsylvania lawmakers are proposing a new bill, HB1812, that aims to prevent state officials from trading cryptocurrencies. The bill requires elected officials and their families to sell any digital assets like Bitcoin and NFTs within 90 days of assuming office or upon the bill’s enactment. Public officials must also disclose any cryptocurrency holdings exceeding $1,000 annually, enhancing transparency. Violations can result in fines up to $50,000 or penalties under the Pennsylvania Ethics Act, potentially including jail time for severe cases. This proposal follows a previous rejection of Bitcoin reserve plans by the state, emphasizing a stricter approach towards crypto regulation. HB1812 is being introduced as national attention on the relationship between crypto and politics intensifies, with public figures like former President Trump facing scrutiny over their involvement in the digital asset market. Pennsylvania’s bill aims to balance innovation and accountability through licensing requirements for digital-asset businesses, aligning with stricter jurisdictions like New York while safeguarding public trust in financial systems.