Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF2228

Introduced
1/31/24  
Introduced
1/31/24  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the establishment of a transactional currency based on gold and silver held in a bullion depository approved by the treasurer of state, and providing fees.

Impact

The introduction of HF2228 is poised to have a substantial impact on the state's financial landscape. By implementing transactional currency, the state aims to provide its residents with greater flexibility and choice in their economic transactions. This could potentially enhance financial security for individuals looking to hedge against inflation or economic instability. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the transactional currency must be redeemable for United States dollars or bullion, assuring users of its liquidity and value. However, the actual mechanics of how this currency would operationally integrate with existing state financial systems remain to be clarified.

Summary

House File 2228 aims to establish a new form of transactional currency backed by gold and silver held in an approved bullion depository. This proposal marks a significant shift in the monetary system of the state, seeking to offer residents an alternative medium of exchange that is not solely reliant on federal fiat currency. Under this bill, the treasurer of state would oversee the creation of accounts for holding specie and bullion, allowing individuals and entities to transact using this new currency as legal tender. The warranty for minting this currency derives from the physical backing by precious metals, which is intended to bolster its value and stability in the market.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HF2228, particularly regarding the feasibility and legal implications of introducing a state-backed currency. Critics may argue that such moves could undermine the authority of the federal currency system and lead to complications in trade and taxation policies between states. Additionally, concerns about the management and security of the bullion depositories, along with ensuring adequate reserves to back the transactional currency, warrant scrutiny. Supporters assert that the move could provide a reliable alternative amidst economic uncertainty, yet critics caution regarding the potential risks involved in transitioning to a dual-currency system regulated at the state level.

Companion Bills

IA SF2108

Similar To A bill for an act relating to the establishment of a transactional currency based on gold and silver held in a bullion depository approved by the treasurer of state, and providing fees.

Similar Bills

AZ SB1096

Bullion depository; establishment

AZ SB1633

Bullion depository; establishment

MS SB2082

Mississippi Bullion Depository; establish in State Treasury.

MS SB2785

Mississippi Bullion Depository; establish in State Treasury.

TX HB483

Relating to the establishment and administration of a state bullion depository; authorizing fees.

TX SB989

Relating to the establishment and administration of a state bullion depository; authorizing fees.

TX SB2173

Relating to the operation and administration of the Texas Bullion Depository; depository agents; and to the appropriation of money from the fees, charges, penalties, and other amounts related to the depository and deposited to the general revenue fund for that purpose.

TX HB3169

Relating to the operation and administration of the Texas Bullion Depository, to depository agents, to the appropriation of money from the fees, charges, penalties, and other amounts related to the depository and deposited to the general revenue fund for that purpose, and to the provision of a related ad valorem tax exemption.