Utah Passes Bitcoin Bill Without Investment Provision as Caution Prevails
March 10, 2025
Senator Kirk A. Cullimore, a sponsor of the bill, noted that concerns about early adoption influenced the decision to strip out the ambitious reserve provision.
Despite this setback, the amended HB230, known as the 'Blockchain and Digital Innovation Amendments', has been approved by both the Utah House and Senate, with the Senate voting 19-7-3.
The removal of the investment provision occurred during the Senate's final reading, reflecting lawmakers' cautious approach to adopting such financial policies.
While Utah has taken a cautious stance, other states like Arizona and Texas are advancing similar legislation, with numerous Bitcoin reserve bills still active across the country.
On the same day as the Utah Senate vote, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to create a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve at the federal level, signaling growing acceptance of Bitcoin.
The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Spencer Cox and aims to protect residents' rights regarding digital assets, including self-custody, mining, and staking.
Utah lawmakers have recently passed a Bitcoin-related bill, HB230, but a significant provision allowing the state treasurer to invest in Bitcoin has been removed.
As of March 10, 2025, Bitcoin's trading price is approximately $78,210, reflecting a 4.23% decline amid bearish market sentiment.
Institutional interest in Bitcoin continues to rise, as evidenced by the University of Austin's establishment of a $5 million Bitcoin fund within its endowment.
The initial investment provision was deleted without a clear explanation, although regulatory uncertainty likely played a role in the decision.
The legislation establishes a framework for digital asset regulation in Utah, ensuring that state and local governments cannot restrict the acceptance of digital assets as payment.
Supporters of the bill argue that it balances innovation and safety, with the goal of attracting blockchain businesses to Utah.
Summary based on 10 sources
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Sources

CoinDesk • Mar 10, 2025
Utah Senate Passes Bitcoin Bill Without BTC Reserve Clause
Cointelegraph • Mar 10, 2025
Utah’s Senate passes Bitcoin bill — but scraps key provision
Decrypt • Mar 10, 2025
Utah Legislature Passes Blockchain Bill, Drops Bitcoin Reserve Provision
Bitcoinist.com • Mar 11, 2025
Utah’s Senate Passes Bitcoin Bill, But Makes Key Amendment