Arkansas 2024 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SR17

Introduced
4/10/24  
Passed
4/11/24  
Introduced
4/10/24  

Caption

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

Impact

If enacted, SR17 will specifically reshape the current regulatory landscape for digital asset mining. It stipulates that businesses in this sector must comply with new licensing requirements from the Department of Energy and Environment and adhere to guidelines for environmental and operational standards. This legislation aims to minimize the adverse effects such as excessive noise, substantial electricity usage, and the potential depletion of local water resources, while fostering the growth of the digital asset economy within Arkansas.

Summary

Senate Resolution 17 (SR17) seeks to amend Arkansas law regarding digital asset mining businesses and the regulation of businesses utilizing blockchain networks. This bill intends to implement a comprehensive framework for the licensure, permitting, and regulation of these businesses in order to align with existing state laws while also addressing the unique challenges posed by this emerging industry. As digital asset mining involves significant energy consumption and potential environmental impacts, the bill emphasizes the need for regulatory oversight to protect public interests in Arkansas.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SR17 is its provision prohibiting foreign nationals from owning or operating digital asset mining businesses in Arkansas. This measure is positioned as a protective mechanism against potential cybersecurity threats, but opponents argue it could hinder investment in the state and limit economic opportunities. The tension between fostering innovation in the digital sector and safeguarding local resources and interests will likely be central to discussions as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HR1020

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SR16

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Amend The Requirements For A Digital Asset Mining Business Or Business Using A Blockchain Network.

AR HR1015

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Amend The Requirements For A Digital Asset Mining Business Or Business Using A Blockchain Network.

AR HR1017

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; And To Regulate The Impact On Water Usage And The Electric Grid By Blockchain Networks And Digital Asset Mining.

AR SR14

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; And To Regulate The Impact On Water Usage And The Electric Grid By Blockchain Networks And Digital Asset Mining.

AR SB79

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Provide For The Regulation Of Digital Asset Mining Businesses; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SR5

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR HR1009

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR SB10

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; And To Regulate The Impact On Water Usage And The Electric Grid By Blockchain Networks And Digital Asset Mining.

AR HB1799

To Create The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; And To Clarify The Regulation Of The Digital Asset Mining Business.

Similar Bills

CA SB689

Records: blockchain.

CA AB2658

Secretary of the Government Operations Agency: working group: blockchain technology.

AR SB79

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Provide For The Regulation Of Digital Asset Mining Businesses; And To Declare An Emergency.

CA SB711

Community colleges: blockchain industry report.

AR HR1020

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

OR HB2071

Relating to blockchains.

KY HB701

AN ACT relating to blockchain digital assets.

VA SB439

Blockchain and cryptocurrency; Joint Commission on Technology & Science to examine use, etc.