Agriculture Committee Moves Bill Forward
The U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee approved a bill on Thursday to create a federal crypto regulatory framework. The vote followed party lines. However, this indicates the bill may struggle to pass the full Senate.
CFTC to Oversee Crypto Markets
If passed, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) would regulate spot crypto markets. It could also create rules for digital exchanges, brokers, and dealers. Meanwhile, the Senate Banking Committee’s companion bill remains contentious. Banks and crypto firms are debating whether crypto companies can pay interest on dollar-pegged stablecoins.
Industry Seeks Legal Clarity
The crypto sector says a market structure bill is crucial for its future. It provides legal certainty for companies operating in the U.S. In fact, the industry spent heavily in the 2024 elections to back pro-crypto candidates. The House passed its version of the bill in July.
Democratic Support Required
To advance to President Donald Trump, the bill needs at least seven Democratic votes. Some Democrats worry it does not prevent political officials from profiting from crypto ventures. As a result, no Democrats on the Agriculture Committee voted to advance the bill.
Calls for More DeFi Provisions
Senator Cory Booker, the committee’s top Democrat, wants more rules for decentralized finance. He said discussions with other members were not reflected in the bill. “We’re almost in the red zone, and that frustrates me,” Booker said, adding he still sees a bipartisan path to pass the legislation.
White House to Meet Industry Leaders
The White House plans to meet banking and crypto executives on Monday. The goal is to discuss a path forward for the Senate Banking Committee bill. Until then, the future of crypto regulation in the U.S. remains uncertain.
