Catenaa, Friday, October 03, 2025-Wisconsin lawmakers are advancing Assembly Bill 471, a proposal designed to reduce regulatory barriers for digital asset activities in the state.
The bill, sponsored primarily by Republicans with one Democratic co-sponsor, aims to exempt mining, staking, blockchain software development, and crypto-to-crypto transfers from money transmitter licensing requirements.
If passed, the legislation would allow residents and businesses to store assets in self-hosted or hardware wallets, accept cryptocurrencies as payment, operate blockchain nodes, and participate in staking without federal or state licensing constraints.
The bill also provides a securities exemption for third-party staking providers, provided rewards come directly from blockchain networks rather than intermediary profit models.
Supporters argue that Assembly Bill 471 would clarify regulatory gray areas, lower barriers for startups, and attract more digital asset companies to Wisconsin. Exchanges could facilitate crypto-to-crypto transfers without needing transmitter licenses, making the state more competitive in blockchain innovation.
Critics warn the measure could complicate coordination with federal authorities, including the SEC and FinCEN, and increase potential risks in oversight and compliance. The bill is currently progressing through committee reviews and chamber votes, with a reported 25% advancement toward the governor’s desk.
Wisconsin’s move reflects a growing trend in US states to create crypto-friendly environments. Wyoming, Texas, and Massachusetts are exploring state-backed Bitcoin or stablecoin initiatives, while Connecticut has taken a more restrictive approach.
Assembly Bill 471 positions Wisconsin as a potential hub for digital asset innovation, balancing oversight with support for blockchain entrepreneurship.
