Bitcoin & Blockchain Policy Survey

Bitcoin Tax Exemption for Small Transactions

Should Rhode Island exempt small Bitcoin transactions (e.g., purchases under $200) from state capital gains taxes to encourage everyday use?

State Tax Treatment of Digital Asset Payments

Should Rhode Island clarify and simplify state tax treatment when digital assets are used as payment for goods and services?

Rhode Island Economic Growth Blockchain Act

Would you support legislation creating a regulatory sandbox to attract blockchain businesses and foster innovation in Rhode Island?

State-Level Bitcoin & Blockchain Study Commission

Several states have formed bipartisan commissions to study the economic and regulatory implications of blockchain technology before drafting legislation. A Rhode Island commission would bring together legislators, academics, and industry experts to produce nonpartisan policy recommendations.

State Digital Asset Reserve / Treasury Diversification

At least 20 states have introduced Bitcoin reserve bills in 2025–2026. The concept involves allocating a small fraction (typically 1–5%) of state treasury or pension reserves to Bitcoin as a long-term hedge against inflation, similar to how states already hold gold or other alternative assets.

Crypto-ATM Consumer Protection

Rhode Island recently passed a law capping crypto-ATM fees and requiring disclosures. How do you feel about the current law?

Private Key Protection & Self-Custody

"Self-custody" means individuals hold the cryptographic keys to their own digital assets — much like keeping cash in a personal safe rather than a bank. Several states are considering bills to protect this right, ensuring residents aren't forced to rely on third-party custodians who could be hacked, go bankrupt, or freeze accounts.

Digital Commons Resolution

A "digital commons" resolution would formally recognize open-source technologies like the Bitcoin network as shared public infrastructure — similar to how the internet itself began as a public resource. This is a non-binding resolution that signals Rhode Island's support for open, permissionless financial technology without imposing any regulations or spending.

Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) vs. Individual Financial Sovereignty

A CBDC is a government-issued digital dollar that, unlike cash, could allow authorities to track every transaction in real time or even restrict how money is spent. While no U.S. CBDC currently exists, multiple states have preemptively passed laws to protect residents' financial privacy. This question asks whether Rhode Island should take similar protective measures.

Bitcoin Mining & Energy Policy

Bitcoin mining uses specialized computers to secure the network and process transactions. While it does consume electricity, mining operations increasingly use renewable or otherwise-curtailed energy, and can act as flexible load that stabilizes power grids. States like Texas and Wyoming have attracted mining facilities as economic development drivers.

Overall Stance on Blockchain / Bitcoin Policy

How would you describe your overall position on blockchain and Bitcoin policy for Rhode Island?

Which policy areas should Rhode Island prioritize?

Any additional comments or questions?