New Hampshire Crypto Mining Bill Stalled Amid Environmental Concerns

New Hampshire's Senate Commerce Committee delayed a decisive vote on House Bill 639, legislation that would curtail local governments' ability to regulate cryptocurrency mining operations. The 4-2 vote to send the bill for further study follows mounting public opposition centered on environmental risks and energy consumption.

Sponsored by Republican Rep. Keith Ammon, the bill seeks to prohibit municipalities from restricting mining activities through zoning laws, noise ordinances, or electricity usage limits. It WOULD also ban targeted taxes on digital assets or mining operations, positioning itself as a safeguard for blockchain innovation.

The proposed legislation includes provisions for a specialized blockchain docket in the state's superior court to handle crypto-related cases. Critics warn the deregulatory approach could lead to unchecked energy demand and environmental degradation, while proponents frame it as necessary protection for technological progress.