U.S. Crypto Future in Limbo as GENIUS Act Hits Roadblock in House Vote

Washington's latest attempt to regulate crypto just face-planted—hard. The GENIUS Act stalled in a House vote this week, leaving the industry's legislative roadmap looking murkier than a DeFi protocol's fine print.

When 'Bipartisan' Means 'Going Nowhere Fast'

Lawmakers can't even agree on how to spell 'blockchain' these days, let alone pass meaningful legislation. The GENIUS Act's failure exposes the growing rift between crypto advocates and old-guard financial regulators—with billions in capital caught in the crossfire.

Meanwhile, on Crypto Twitter...

Industry leaders are already spinning this as a win ('less regulation = more innovation!'), while SEC Chair Gary Gensler probably just popped champagne. The real victims? Institutional investors who now get to keep playing 'guess which exchange might implode next.'

One thing's clear: America's crypto policy is stuck in committee purgatory—right where Wall Street likes it. After all, nothing protects traditional finance quite like regulatory uncertainty.

TLDR

• The U.S. House of Representatives failed to pass a procedural motion needed to advance the GENIUS Act.
• The GENIUS Act along with the CLARITY Act and Anti-CBDC Act was expected to move forward during Crypto Week.
• The vote ended with 196 members in favor and 222 against, blocking the bill’s immediate consideration.
• Some Republican lawmakers opposed the GENIUS Act due to the absence of a complete ban on a central bank digital currency.
• Democrats used the failed vote to criticize Republican leadership and reaffirm their opposition to the GENIUS Act.

Crypto Week faced an unexpected disruption as the U.S. House failed to pass a procedural motion required to advance key crypto bills. The GENIUS Act, CLARITY Act, and Anti-CBDC Act could not proceed, with the vote ending 196-222. Lawmakers now prepare for another round of voting as momentum behind the GENIUS Act weakens.

House Fails Key Vote, GENIUS Act Stalls

The procedural vote setback disrupted the legislative schedule initially set for the GENIUS Act and associated bills. Lawmakers opposed moving forward, delaying the GENIUS Act’s planned vote before the July 17 deadline. Despite urgency from supporters, the measure did not gain enough traction.

I just caught up with STEVE SCALISE about the crypto failure on the floor.

Here's what he said:

"I was one of those who WOULD like to see the whole package as one. … But the president and the Senate really want us to move GENIUS first. …

"The question is do we play games…

— Jake Sherman (@JakeSherman) July 15, 2025

Many House Republicans, influenced by internal disagreements, rejected the GENIUS Act’s current language. Some demanded stronger anti-CBDC language, which the bill lacks. This fracture within the party created resistance to proceeding.

Marjorie Taylor Greene opposed the GENIUS Act, expressing concerns it allows indirect support for a CBDC framework. Other Republican members also echoed similar reservations, amplifying internal division. These concerns created further doubt over the GENIUS Act’s future.

Political Divisions Deepen Around Crypto Bills

The GENIUS Act became a flashpoint in the broader political battle over crypto regulation. Democrats, led by Maxine Waters, mocked Republicans for failing to unite behind the crypto agenda. They previously launched “Anti-Crypto Corruption Week” to challenge the GENIUS Act’s objectives.

House Democrats continued to resist the GENIUS Act and related bills throughout the debate. They argued the legislation lacked sufficient protections and created openings for risky innovation. Their pushback contributed to the bill’s current limbo.

President Donald TRUMP urged Republicans to back the crypto bill to position the U.S. as a crypto leader. However, his appeal did not change the outcome of the vote. The GOP remains divided on how to approach the legislation.

Bitcoin Surges Despite Legislative Block

Bitcoin reacted positively after the procedural vote failed, crossing $117,000 despite the GENIUS Act setback. The price even hit $123,000 earlier on July 14 in anticipation of passage. This unexpected surge highlights growing Optimism in the market.

Traders anticipated progress on the GENIUS Act but adjusted positions after the delay. Market behavior suggests confidence in long-term regulatory clarity. The bill continues to drive speculation in crypto markets.