GENIUS Act Nears Approval: U.S. Stablecoin Rules Set for Landmark Decision Next Week

The crypto industry braces for a regulatory watershed as the GENIUS Act—finally—gets its Congressional nod. After years of ’stablecoins are coming soon’ promises from regulators (who move at blockchain speed, apparently), Washington looks ready to deliver actual rules.

Why This Matters: Clear regulations could unleash institutional capital into stablecoins—if the bill doesn’t get bogged down in last-minute political grandstanding.

Watch For: Whether the final version maintains its tech-neutral stance or gets watered down with legacy finance protections. Either way, TradFi lobbyists will take their cut—some things never change.

Why the GENIUS Act Matters?

The GENIUS Act, short for “Guiding and Empowering the Nation for Innovation in U.S. Stablecoins”, was introduced in March 2024 by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (Democrat) and Cynthia Lummis (Republican). 

It was created to FORM clear, smart regulations for stablecoins that support innovation while safeguarding the financial system.

Meanwhile, the bill is seen as a step toward giving legitimacy and direction to crypto innovation in the U.S. Supporters say it will help small players get the same chances as big ones, since they’re often left out today.

Paul Barron also noted that this aligns with a broader vision tied to President Donald Trump’s economic strategy to make the U.S. a global leader in digital finance.

Crypto for the People, Not Just the Powerful

What sets the GENIUS Act apart is its potential to level the financial playing field. Paul Barron noted that small businesses, retail investors, and blockchain startups stand to gain the most. 

By clearing up regulatory confusion, the bill could make it easier for innovative projects to grow in the U.S., without having to MOVE overseas.

Warren Pushes Back on Crypto Bill

Still, not everyone agrees with the bill. Senator Elizabeth Warren and her team are trying to slow it down or stop it. Warren has always been tough on crypto, and her pushback shows that Washington is still split, some support digital money, while others want stricter rules.

If passed, the GENIUS Act will mark a turning point for U.S. crypto regulation. By setting clear rules for stablecoins, it could bring legitimacy and stability to a space often criticized for chaos and risk.