Ohio Advances Blockchain Basics Act, Paving Way for Crypto Freedom in the State

Ohio is taking a bold step toward crypto adoption as its House of Representatives passes the landmark Blockchain Basics Act, aiming to protect digital asset holders and miners while reducing regulatory barriers. If signed into law, the bill could turn Ohio into a leading hub for crypto innovation and user rights.

Legislative Momentum: What the Blockchain Basics Act Entails

Ohio’s Blockchain Basics Act cleared a crucial hurdle this week, with the state House voting 68-26 in favor of the sweeping crypto-friendly legislation. The bill now heads to the state Senate for consideration. If enacted, it will prevent state and local authorities from restricting the use of digital assets as payment or interfering with individuals’ use of self-hosted wallets and hardware wallets. Additionally, the law seeks to streamline residential and industrial crypto mining operations by limiting government overreach and providing clear guidelines for businesses and individuals alike.

Key Protections for Miners, Wallet Users, and Everyday Crypto Holders

The Blockchain Basics Act establishes explicit safeguards for those involved in the crypto ecosystem. Residential miners working within local guidelines would gain legal protection to operate, while mining businesses in industrial zones are ensured fair treatment—prohibiting arbitrary rezoning without notification or a chance for affected parties to comment. The bill also exempts individuals operating blockchain nodes, engaging in mining, staking, or asset exchange from stringent money transmitter and investment regulations. Notably, everyday crypto users stand to benefit from a new capital gains tax exemption on transactions valued under $200, easing the tax burden and simplifying compliance.

Key Stats & Figures

• House Vote Margin: Approved 68-26, signaling strong bipartisan support.
• Capital Gains Exemption: Transactions under $200 are exempt from capital gains tax, minimizing complexity for small users.
• Mining Protections: Legalizes home mining subject to local ordinances and safeguards industrial miners from sudden zoning changes and discrimination.
• National Trend: Follows similar legislative actions in Kentucky and ongoing debates in Arizona, Florida, California, Texas, and Wyoming.

Context: The Growing State Movement for Crypto Rights

Ohio’s legislative action arrives amid a surge of state-level efforts to protect crypto users’ rights across the U.S. The bill’s passage closely follows Kentucky’s adoption of a Bitcoin and Ethereum self-custody law and comes on the heels of major federal discussions around stablecoin regulation. Lawmakers across multiple states, including Arizona and Texas, are exploring similar protections, pointing to a broader national momentum towards common-sense regulation that balances innovation with consumer protection. Advocacy groups like the Satoshi Action Fund have applauded Ohio’s initiative, calling the bill a “clear signal” that state governments are recognizing the need to encourage digital asset innovation while removing unnecessary legal roadblocks.

Conclusion: What This Means for the Market

With the Blockchain Basics Act, Ohio is poised to set a powerful precedent for crypto policy in the U.S., offering certainty and protection for individuals and businesses engaging with digital assets. If the Senate approves the measure and Governor DeWine signs it into law, Ohio could quickly emerge as a key destination for blockchain enterprises and crypto users seeking a supportive regulatory environment. The coming months will be critical as the state awaits final legislative and executive action—potentially signaling a new chapter for crypto freedom and innovation in the Midwest and beyond.

Ohio’s lawmakers advance comprehensive protections for crypto users, miners, and businesses with the Blockchain Basics Act, putting the state at the forefront of digital asset legislation and setting the stage for wider adoption across the U.S.