Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act Now Paved to 2025

Key Points:

• Congressman Derek Merrin introduced the Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act, allowing the state treasurer to invest in Bitcoin without mandatory requirements.
• Ohio joins Texas and Pennsylvania in proposing state-level Bitcoin reserve initiatives.

Ohio Congressman Derek Merrin has proposed a bill, House Bill 703, also called the Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act, to implement a state-held Bitcoin reserve fund.

Read more: US President-elect Trump Will Promote Strategic Bitcoin Reserve In 2025

Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act Introduced to Strengthen State Finances

Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act would allow the state treasurer to invest in Bitcoin at their discretion, though it does not impose mandatory purchase requirements or portfolio allocations.

Merrin added that the bill would help protect the state’s finances from the loss in value of the U.S. dollar, positioning Bitcoin as a financial buffer and an instrument to stimulate innovation. This bill provides a framework to guide the integration of Bitcoin into state economic strategies and fiscal policy challenges, driving technology development.

The bill is introduced to amend section 2981.12 and enact section 135.146 of the Revised Code of Ohio. Direct changes may not come for some time, though, considering the 135th General Assembly will adjourn no later than December 31. Merrin believes the proposal will get hot attention in Ohio’s next 2025 legislative session.

Future Ohio Crypto Adoption Legislation

The Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act is part of a growing trend among U.S. states that are looking into Bitcoin reserves. Texas and Pennsylvania have passed similar bills, indicating a wider interest in state-level adoption of cryptocurrencies.

Merrin referenced the possibility of a federal Bitcoin reserve program under the anticipated Trump administration. The proposal was promoted by Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming.