Key facts
- Hawkins County Commissioners voted unanimously to ban crypto mining and data centers.
- This is the second ban related to digital assets in the county.
- The ban applies to unincorporated areas.
- ExoticRidge mining company is involved in a lawsuit with the county.
- A statewide ban on cryptocurrency ATMs took effect July 1.
Hawkins County Commissioners in Tennessee have passed their second ban targeting digital asset operations. The commission voted unanimously, 12-0, to prohibit the establishment, construction, installation, expansion, and operation of cryptocurrency mining facilities and data centers within the county's unincorporated areas. This latest measure follows a similar ban enacted in September 2025, which was part of an effort to prevent ExoticRidge mining company from setting up operations. The county had also passed a resolution in January to affirm its authority to implement such bans. In January, ExoticRidge and county officials proposed a settlement that would allow the company to operate its facility under specific noise restrictions, limiting operations to no more than 80 A-weighted decibels (dBA) at the property line for more than 30 minutes during any four-hour period. This county-level action is part of a broader trend of regulatory measures against crypto companies in Tennessee. As of July 1, a new state law, signed in April, made the use and installation of cryptocurrency ATMs and kiosks illegal. This statewide restriction was implemented in response to concerns about residents, particularly seniors, being targeted by scammers using these machines.