Texas lawmakers have introduced a bill to establish a state-managed Bitcoin reserve, aiming to explore the potential role of crypto in public finance.
Filed on Dec. 13 by Republican Rep. Giovanni Capriglione, the legislation would allow the state to collect taxes, fees, and donations in Bitcoin, with the assets held for at least five years.
Titled “An Act Relating to the Establishment of a Bitcoin Reserve Within the State Treasury of Texas and the Management of Cryptocurrencies by Governmental Entities,” the proposal does not include provisions for the state to make direct Bitcoin purchases.
Instead, it focuses on building a reserve through voluntary contributions and payments.
The proposal, announced during an X Spaces event, is designed to provide the state with an alternative financial tool while leveraging its existing Bitcoin infrastructure. It was developed with input from the Satoshi Action Fund, a nonprofit organization focused on crypto policy.
According to Capriglione:
“Inflation remains a significant challenge to maintaining the value of long-term investments. This initiative offers an opportunity to explore Bitcoin as a potential safeguard for the state’s financial stability.”
Texas’ role in crypto
Texas, the second-largest economy in the United States, has the highest concentration of Bitcoin miners in the country, providing a unique opportunity to integrate crypto into state operations.
Supporters of the bill suggest that accepting Bitcoin payments from these entities could further enhance Texas’ role as a leader in digital innovation. Capriglione said the bill’s goal is to provide “flexibility while encouraging broader adoption.”
He added:
“The proposal is a starting point, with room for further development as it gains legislative support.”
The bill aligns with growing interest at the national level in incorporating Bitcoin into government policy. President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign included a proposal for a federal Bitcoin reserve, and Bitcoin prices have risen over 45% since the November election, reflecting increased market attention.
Bitcoin reserve conversations continue
Texas is one of several states exploring legislation related to Bitcoin reserves. Pennsylvania introduced a similar proposal in November, and discussions are already underway in other states and countries about adopting similar measures.
Satoshi Action Fund CEO Dennis Porter noted that the Texas initiative reflects a broader shift across US states, with many “beginning to consider Bitcoin as a tool to address economic challenges.”
He pointed to legislative developments in states like Oklahoma and Louisiana that focus on protecting mining and self-custody rights, calling them a clear indicator of the growing movement.
Meanwhile, the concept of a federal Bitcoin reserve has also gained significant traction since it was first unveiled as a legitimate plan earlier this year.
At the Bitcoin 2024 conference, President-elect Trump emphasized plans to incorporate Bitcoin into national strategy, while Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis unveiled her own proposal for a federal reserve.
Despite the growing interest and rumors of the plans being in advanced stages, market analysts remain cautious about the likelihood of federal action but acknowledge the growing interest in Bitcoin as a financial instrument.