AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 47, relative to digital currency.
Impact
If enacted, HB 1901 will have significant implications for regulatory practices in Tennessee regarding digital financial transactions. The amendments to state law clarify that only privately issued digital currencies can fall under the definition of money, thus positioning the state to influence how businesses and individuals interact with non-government controlled digital currencies. This could encourage innovation in the fintech sector within Tennessee, as businesses may find clearer pathways to develop and implement digital payment solutions that conform to the new definitions established by the bill.
Summary
House Bill 1901, also known as the Digital Currency Act, is a legislative effort aimed at amending the Tennessee Code Annotated to address the emerging landscape of digital currencies. The bill seeks to clarify the definition of 'money' to explicitly exclude central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) from the traditional definitions and classifications of currency. By distinguishing digital currencies issued by governmental authorities from other forms of money, the law aims to provide a clearer regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies and other digital assets that are not state-issued.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment around HB 1901 appears to be supportive among financial technology proponents who advocate for regulatory clarity and growth in the digital currency space. Advocates suggest that such measures are necessary to harness the potential of cryptocurrencies while safeguarding consumers. However, there are concerns raised by some legislators regarding the implications of excluding CBDCs, which may affect the state's ability to adapt to future trends in digital finance as central banks worldwide explore their own digital currencies.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1901 include debates about the potential long-term consequences of excluding CBDCs from the definition of money. Critics argue that this could limit the state's readiness to integrate with future digital currency frameworks, potentially leaving Tennessee businesses at a disadvantage compared to other jurisdictions that may embrace CBDC developments. Furthermore, the legislative discussion includes considerations on how this new definition impacts existing financial regulations and consumer protections in the state's evolving economic landscape.
Relating to the Uniform Commercial Code; to amend Section 7-1-201, to provide a definition for "central bank digital currency;" and to specify that the definition of "money" does not include central bank digital currency.