The discussion about crypto regulations is returning to the agenda of American politics. After months of delays, things appear to be moving again in Washington, where lawmakers are preparing for the next step in a long-running legislative process. According to proponents, this moment could determine the future of the crypto industry in the United States.
Important step after months of delay
The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, better known as the CLARITY Act, is on the agenda of the US Senate in January. This was reported by David Sacks, the White House AI and crypto advisor. The law must clarify how cryptocurrencies are legally treated and which regulators are responsible for this.
Sacks reported on X that the chairmen of the Senate Banking and Agriculture committees have confirmed that the bill will be considered early next year. It concerns Tim Scott and John Boozman, both Republicans, who are jointly responsible for the so-called markup. Senators can adjust the text before a vote.
“We are closer than ever to passing the landmark legislation on the structure of the crypto market that President Trump has called for. We look forward to completing the work in January,” Sacks wrote.
More clarity for crypto
The CLARITY Act should determine when crypto falls under the rules for securities and when it is considered a commodity. This provides more clarity about the division of roles between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). For crypto companies, this may mean less uncertainty about licensing and supervision.
Supporters of the law say clear rules can spur innovation without sacrificing investor protection. Opponents warn that relaxing rules could increase the risks, but that sound is currently limited in the Senate.
Delay due to shutdown
Progress on the CLARITY Act took longer than expected. Senator Cynthia Lummis, a well-known Bitcoin proponent, predicted in September that the law would be signed by President Donald Trump before the end of 2025.
The process was delayed by an unprecedented long US government shutdown, which lasted 43 days in October and November.
Discussions continued during that period. Representatives from Coinbase, Ripple and Circle, among others, spoke to regulators to keep up the momentum.
The law was already passed by the House of Representatives in July. In the Senate, the substantive discussion follows first and then a vote, for which a large majority is required. If any changes are made, the proposal will return to the House one more time. Only then can Trump sign the law.
Source: https://newsbit.nl/amerikaanse-senaat-buigt-zich-binnenkort-over-historische-cryptowetgeving/
