Nebraska Slams Brakes on Crypto Miners—Because Clearly, the Grid Was Just Fine Before Bitcoin
Nebraska lawmakers just voted to restrict crypto mining operations—because nothing says ’innovation’ like capping the industry that actually builds infrastructure. The bill cruised through its final reading with bipartisan support, proving politicians will always unite to regulate something they don’t understand.
Mining ops now face stricter energy caps and zoning rules. Because who needs economic growth when you can have bureaucratic red tape? Meanwhile, Wall Street still burns megawatts on algo-trading—but sure, let’s blame Bitcoin for the power grid’s woes.
Another win for ’progress,’ another L for crypto. At least the politicians can now sleep soundly, knowing they’ve successfully protected Nebraska from... checks notes... job creation and tech investment.
Split on crypto mining
LB 526’s advancement comes as states across the U.S. take diverging approaches to crypto mining regulation.
President Donald Trump, during his 2024 campaign, advocated for the remainder of Bitcoin’s fixed supply to be mined within U.S. borders, calling it key to achieving “energy dominance” and protecting against the rise of a central bank digital currency.
Just last month, Arizona enacted HB 2342, which shields at-home miners and blockchain node operators from local zoning restrictions, declaring such activities a matter of statewide concern.
Meanwhile, Kentucky signed a law in March that formally protects users who self-custody crypto and confirms that mining and staking are not considered securities.
The next step in Nebraska’s legislative process is its executive review. The governor has five legislative days, excluding Sundays, to sign or veto the bill.
If he takes no action, the bill will automatically become law without his signature. As of now, the Governor’s office has not commented on LB 526. It did not immediately respond to Decrypt’s request for comment.
Edited by Sebastian Sinclair
