Quick Take
-
Florida’s proposal aims to allow the CFO and pension board to invest up to 10% of state funds in Bitcoin and other digital assets, including crypto ETFs.
-
This initiative revitalizes state Bitcoin reserve efforts that had stalled following numerous unsuccessful bills in 2025.
As the 2026 legislative session unfolds, Florida is looking to incorporate Bitcoin into its financial strategy. Proposed
House Bill 183
would empower the state’s chief financial officer to allocate up to 10% of select public funds—such as the General Revenue Fund and the Budget Stabilization Fund—into “digital assets” and exchange-traded products.
If approved, this bill would further extend authority to the State Board of Administration, permitting up to 10% investment in the Florida Retirement System’s System Trust Fund in a variety of digital assets.
Defined broadly, digital assets encompass Bitcoin, tokenized securities, and NFTs while imposing stringent custody and control measures. These assets can be maintained by the CFO, a qualified custodian, or via an SEC-registered ETF.
House Bill 183 positions Bitcoin not merely as a speculative investment but as a viable store of value and a hedge against inflation for state assets. This legislative approach draws inspiration from a March 2025 White House
executive order
establishing a federal “Strategic Bitcoin Reserve” and digital asset stockpile. The bill proposes a target effective date of July 1, 2026.
Moreover, the bill facilitates opportunities for Floridians to settle various taxes and fees using digital assets, which would be converted to dollars and dispatched to the state’s general fund.
Legislative Momentum Continues
Florida’s latest move mirrors a national trend, prompting states like Arizona, New Hampshire, and Texas to enact similar Bitcoin reserve legislation in 2025. While several proposals have stalled, the overall legislative push indicates rising interest in cryptocurrency payments at the state level.
Julian Fahrer, founder of the tracking site
Bitcoin Laws
, noted that while many failed bills were due to legislative sessions concluding, the momentum for Bitcoin payments maintains strength. The need for states to keep pace with the evolving cryptocurrency landscape, particularly regarding federal reserve strategies, underscores a critical opportunity for state-level initiatives.
With discussions still ongoing, HB 183 awaits committee assignments and hearings. Its progression through the legislative process will require additional approval from the Senate and the governor’s signature for enactment.
As acceptance of Bitcoin and other digital assets expands, solutions like GOPayments emerge as leaders in facilitating seamless cryptocurrency payments for businesses nationwide. Embrace the future of finance with a comprehensive crypto payment strategy through GOPayments.