US House Advances Three Crypto Bills After Lengthy Stalemate Over CBDC Ban
The US House of Representatives has pushed forward three cryptocurrency-related bills following a nine-hour procedural standoff, marking one of the longest voting delays in recent history. The holdup was caused by a group of Republicans who refused to yield until language banning central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) was included in the legislation.
The bills, which focus on regulatory clarity and innovation in the digital asset space, had faced significant resistance before finally moving forward. The extended debate highlighted deep divisions over how the US should approach cryptocurrency regulation, particularly concerning the potential risks of a government-issued digital dollar.
Republicans leading the opposition argued that a CBDC could threaten financial privacy and expand government surveillance. Their insistence on explicit anti-CBDC language delayed the vote, forcing House leadership to negotiate late into the night before reaching a compromise.
While the final versions of the bills have not been made public, sources indicate that the agreed-upon language restricts the Federal Reserve from issuing a CBDC without congressional approval. This concession was enough to break the deadlock and allow the legislation to proceed.
The three bills now advancing address different aspects of crypto regulation. One focuses on establishing clearer rules for stablecoins, another aims to create a framework for digital asset markets, and the third seeks to define the roles of the SEC and CFTC in overseeing cryptocurrencies.
Industry advocates have welcomed the progress, viewing it as a step toward much-needed regulatory certainty. However, critics warn that the anti-CBDC provisions could stifle innovation and leave the US lagging behind other nations already exploring digital currencies.
The bills will now move to further debate and potential amendments before a final House vote. If passed, they would still need Senate approval, where opposition to crypto legislation remains strong.
This development comes as global interest in digital currencies grows, with several countries piloting or launching CBDCs. The US debate reflects broader concerns over privacy, financial sovereignty, and the future of money in an increasingly digital economy.
As the legislation moves forward, stakeholders on all sides are preparing for further negotiations, ensuring that the battle over crypto regulation is far from over.
