Key facts
- New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte signed the Blockchain Basic Laws Act (HB 639).
- The law aims to protect cryptocurrency innovation, users, developers, and businesses.
- It establishes a special blockchain dispute docket in the state's superior court.
- New Hampshire previously established a strategic Bitcoin reserve, allowing up to 5% of public funds in crypto.
- A proposal for a Bitcoin-backed municipal bond was recently rejected by the state's executive council.
New Hampshire has further solidified its position as a crypto-friendly state with Governor Kelly Ayotte's signing of the Blockchain Basic Laws Act (HB 639). The legislation aims to provide comprehensive legal protections for blockchain innovation, crypto users, developers, miners, validators, entrepreneurs, and businesses operating within the state. It also establishes a dedicated blockchain dispute docket within the superior court system.
This move builds upon New Hampshire's previous initiative last year, when it became the first U.S. state to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve. This reserve allows the state treasurer to invest up to 5% of public funds in Bitcoin, alongside traditional assets like gold and silver, as a potential hedge against inflation. Representative Keith Ammon, the bill's primary sponsor, emphasized that the new law protects the fundamental right of individuals to control their digital assets through self-custody.