US Congress Revives Major Crypto Bill to Establish Clear Rules for Digital Assets in 2026
- What’s the Crypto Bill All About?
- Why Are Stablecoins and DeFi Under the Microscope?
- How Will the Senate Merge Competing Proposals?
- What’s the Timeline for the Bill’s Passage?
- Why Does This Matter for Crypto’s Future in the US?
- FAQs
The US Congress is pushing forward a landmark cryptocurrency bill aimed at creating clear regulatory frameworks for digital assets. The bill, which could redefine oversight between the SEC and CFTC, addresses stablecoin rewards, DeFi regulations, and political figures' crypto profits. With midterm elections looming, lawmakers are racing against time to finalize the legislation. Here’s a deep dive into what’s at stake.
What’s the Crypto Bill All About?
The US Congress is reigniting efforts to pass a comprehensive cryptocurrency bill designed to bring clarity to the digital asset space. The legislation, dubbed the "Market Structure Bill," seeks to establish the first concrete legal rules for cryptocurrencies in the country. Key focuses include defining regulatory responsibilities between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), as well as setting guidelines for exchanges, brokers, and token classifications. If passed, this could simplify compliance for crypto businesses and reduce legal ambiguities.
Why Are Stablecoins and DeFi Under the Microscope?
Three contentious issues are dominating discussions:
- Stablecoin Rewards: Critics argue that stablecoin issuers are circumventing the GENIUS Act by offering yields that compete with traditional savings accounts. Cody Carbone of the Digital Chamber of Commerce notes this is a top priority for Congress.
- DeFi Accountability: Developers fear being held liable for illicit activities like money laundering. Amanda Tuminelli of the DeFi Education Fund emphasizes the need to protect coders from misuse of their tools.
- Political Profits: Senators like Elizabeth Warren want to ban elected officials, including former President Trump, from crypto-related earnings during their terms.
How Will the Senate Merge Competing Proposals?
The Senate Agriculture and Banking Committees are finalizing their versions of the bill, which will then be merged into a single draft. The consolidated text will face a Senate vote, but delays are expected. Summer Mersinger of the Blockchain Association warns that time is running out before the 2026 midterms, which could derail the bill entirely.
What’s the Timeline for the Bill’s Passage?
Lawmakers aim to vote before November 2026, but disagreements between Republicans and Democrats could stall progress. The bill’s supporters acknowledge it’s a race against the clock—if it isn’t passed by then, the effort may collapse.
Why Does This Matter for Crypto’s Future in the US?
This bill could set a global precedent for crypto regulation. With the SEC and CFTC vying for oversight, and DeFi innovators pushing for protections, the stakes are high. The outcome will shape whether the US remains a crypto hub or falls behind other jurisdictions.
FAQs
What are the key points of the crypto bill?
The bill aims to clarify regulatory roles (SEC vs. CFTC), define stablecoin rules, address DeFi accountability, and restrict political figures from crypto profits.
Why is the stablecoin issue controversial?
Stablecoin issuers are accused of offering yields that bypass the GENIUS Act, creating unfair competition with traditional banks.
Could the bill fail to pass?
Yes—political gridlock and the 2026 midterms could derail it if not finalized in time.
