Congress Revives Major Crypto Bill to Set Clear Rules for Digital Assets in the U.S. in 2026
- What’s in the Crypto Bill and Why Does It Matter?
- Stablecoin Rewards, DeFi, and the Trump Factor: Key Battlegrounds
- How Will the Senate Merge Competing Drafts?
- Why This Bill Could Make or Break Crypto in the U.S.
- FAQs
The U.S. Congress is pushing forward a landmark cryptocurrency bill aimed at establishing clear regulations for digital assets. With hearings scheduled this week, the Senate Agriculture and Banking Committees are set to review and potentially amend key sections. The bill could redefine how the SEC and CFTC oversee crypto, address stablecoin rewards, DeFi platforms, and even restrict elected officials like Donald TRUMP from profiting off crypto while in office. Time is running out—if the bill isn’t passed before the 2026 midterms, it could collapse entirely.
What’s in the Crypto Bill and Why Does It Matter?
The proposedaims to create the first real legal framework for cryptocurrencies in the U.S. If passed, it WOULD provide much-needed regulatory certainty, allowing crypto businesses to operate without legal gray areas. The bill also redefines the roles of the SEC and CFTC in crypto oversight, clarifies token classifications, and sets compliance requirements for exchanges and brokers. According to, this could significantly impact market stability and investor confidence.
Stablecoin Rewards, DeFi, and the Trump Factor: Key Battlegrounds
Three contentious issues are expected to dominate debates:
- Stablecoin Rewards: Critics argue that some stablecoin issuers are skirting regulations by offering yields that compete with traditional savings accounts, violating last year’s GENIUS Act.
- DeFi Regulation: Developers fear being held liable for illicit activities conducted using their tools. Amanda Tuminelli of the DeFi Education Fund emphasized the need to protect coders from misuse.
- Political Profits: Lawmakers like Elizabeth Warren want to ban officials, including Trump (whose associates launched a memecoin and NFT), from crypto trading while in office.
How Will the Senate Merge Competing Drafts?
The Senate Agriculture and Banking Committees are finalizing their drafts this Thursday, which will then be merged into a comprehensive bill. Summer Mersinger of the Blockchain Association noted that while the House dismissed the anti-profiting clause, the Senate may not delay. With the 2026 midterms looming, supporters are racing against time—failure to pass the bill by November could derail years of progress.
Why This Bill Could Make or Break Crypto in the U.S.
This legislation isn’t just about rules—it’s about survival. Without clear regulations, crypto firms may flee the U.S., stifling innovation. As Cody Carbone of the Digital Chamber put it, “This is our shot to get it right.” But with partisan divides and competing priorities, the bill’s fate hangs in the balance.
FAQs
What is the Crypto Clarity Act?
The Crypto Clarity Act is a proposed U.S. bill designed to establish clear regulations for digital assets, including stablecoins, DeFi platforms, and exchange compliance.
Why are stablecoin rewards controversial?
Some stablecoin issuers offer yields that bypass traditional banking regulations, raising concerns about unfair competition and regulatory evasion.
Could the bill ban politicians from crypto trading?
Yes, lawmakers like Elizabeth Warren are pushing for provisions to prevent elected officials from profiting off cryptocurrencies while in office.