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Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has signed House Bill 7082 into law, banning state investment in virtual currencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), marking a significant policy shift.
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The legislation, supported by Democratic lawmakers, not only prohibits state holdings of digital assets but also introduces stringent consumer protection measures for crypto transactions.
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According to COINOTAG, Connecticut now stands apart as other US states like Texas, Arizona, and New Hampshire continue to adopt digital asset reserves, highlighting a growing divide in state-level crypto policies.
Connecticut bans state investment in cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, introducing robust consumer protections amid contrasting US state crypto policies.
Connecticut Enacts Comprehensive Ban on State Cryptocurrency Investments
House Bill 7082, signed into law by Governor Ned Lamont in June 2025, explicitly prohibits the state and its political subdivisions from accepting, holding, or investing in virtual currencies. This legislation represents a decisive stance against the integration of digital assets within Connecticut’s public financial management. The bill was introduced earlier in the year and passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, reflecting concerns over the volatility and regulatory uncertainties surrounding cryptocurrencies.
The law states, “Neither the state nor any political subdivision of the state shall (1) accept or require payment in the form of virtual currency for an amount due to the state or the political subdivision, or (2) purchase, hold, invest in or establish a reserve of virtual currency.” This clear language ensures that Connecticut’s public funds remain insulated from the risks associated with digital asset markets, diverging sharply from the approach taken by several other states.
Consumer Protection Measures Strengthen Crypto Transaction Oversight
Beyond the investment ban, HB 7082 introduces robust consumer protection provisions aimed at enhancing transparency and security in virtual currency transactions. Businesses engaging in crypto dealings must now disclose critical risks, including the irreversibility of transactions, absence of government insurance, and potential for unrecoverable losses. These disclosures are designed to inform consumers and mitigate the risks inherent in digital asset usage.
Virtual currency kiosk operators face particularly stringent regulations under the new law. Requirements include mandatory customer identity verification, restrictions on transactions involving high-risk or sanctioned wallets, and daily transaction limits—$2,000 for new customers and $5,000 for existing ones. Additionally, kiosks must provide live customer support and employ a full-time compliance officer to oversee adherence to these regulations, setting a high standard for operational accountability.
Contrasting State Approaches: Connecticut vs. Texas and Others
Connecticut’s ban contrasts sharply with the growing trend among other US states to embrace cryptocurrencies as part of their financial strategies. In late June 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 21, authorizing the creation of the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, making Texas the first state to actively fund a digital asset reserve with public money.
Similarly, Arizona and New Hampshire have passed legislation to establish Bitcoin and digital asset reserves, signaling a broader acceptance of cryptocurrencies at the state level. Arizona recently revived a bill to create a Bitcoin and Digital Assets Reserve Fund, demonstrating sustained legislative interest in integrating digital assets into state financial portfolios.
Global Momentum for State-Level Crypto Reserves
The movement to incorporate cryptocurrencies into national financial frameworks is not limited to the United States. Internationally, countries like Kazakhstan are exploring the establishment of state crypto reserves, with the National Bank of Kazakhstan reportedly considering such initiatives. Pakistan has also announced plans to create a Bitcoin reserve, reflecting a global trend toward recognizing digital assets as strategic financial instruments.
These developments underscore a growing recognition of cryptocurrencies’ potential role in diversifying state reserves and enhancing financial innovation, even as some jurisdictions like Connecticut adopt a more cautious regulatory posture.
Conclusion
Connecticut’s enactment of House Bill 7082 marks a clear and cautious approach to digital assets, prioritizing risk mitigation and consumer protection over speculative investment. While other states and countries move toward embracing cryptocurrencies within their financial strategies, Connecticut’s legislation highlights the ongoing debate over the role of digital assets in public finance. This divergence in policy approaches will continue to shape the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency regulation and adoption in the US and beyond.
