New Hampshire Adopts Bitcoin Reserve Policy, Caps Investment at 5%

New Hampshire has made history by becoming the first U.S. state to adopt a "live free or die" currency policy framework through the enactment of HB 302 on May 7th. This groundbreaking legislation implements the Satoshi Action’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR) Model Act, enabling the state treasury to acquire Bitcoin and other top-tier digital assets. The bill allows the government to invest up to $5 billion in Bitcoin, with a cautious cap of 5% of the state’s total portfolio. This ensures that Bitcoin serves as a supplementary investment rather than the primary focus.

The legislation includes stringent regulatory standards for custody, requiring that assets be secured through state-controlled multi-signature wallets or U.S. exchange-traded products. This enhances transparency and security, providing a clear operational guideline for the reserve within 60 days of its enactment. Dennis Porter, CEO of Satoshi Action, highlighted that this proactive legislation sets a crucial precedent and empowers other state treasurers to adopt similar measures centered around Bitcoin. This move is expected to spark a broader movement toward financial innovation and security.

Satoshi Action, a leading nonprofit organization, has been instrumental in promoting Bitcoin education among policymakers. Their advocacy efforts have resulted in the passage of six pro-Bitcoin laws and the introduction of more than 20 Strategic Bitcoin Reserve initiatives. This demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering informed and constructive discussions surrounding digital asset policy. The organization's work has paved the way for other states to consider similar legislative actions, potentially leading to a more widespread adoption of Bitcoin and other digital assets in state treasuries.