Illinois has advanced House Bill 1844, proposing a state-run Bitcoin reserve that mandates a minimum five-year holding period before any transactions. Introduced by State Representative John Cabello, this bill aims to create a special fund in the state treasury dedicated to holding Bitcoin as a financial asset. The legislation stipulates that the State Treasurer must retain any deposited Bitcoin for at least five years from the date of custody. Following this period, the treasury may sell or convert the Bitcoin to another cryptocurrency. This move positions Illinois as a pioneer in integrating Bitcoin within traditional finance. Supporters, like MANSA's co-founder Mouloukou Sanoh, view the initiative as a positive step towards wider Bitcoin adoption in the U.S. While Illinois takes this initial approach, broader nationwide acceptance may require more time and regulatory clarity. Texas has also announced legislative priorities for potential Bitcoin reserves, indicating a momentum for cryptocurrency integration in state finance.

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