Coffee with Congressman Kinzinger, sponsor of pro-bitcoin H.R. 835

October 5, 2016
Share the news!

Earlier this week, I sat down with Congressman Adam Kinzinger, sponsor of the H.R. 835, a resolution calling for a pro-bitcoin national policy. We met in a popular local coffee shop in downstate Illinois, a predominately rural, farming region far removed from the bright lights and big city bitcoin hub of Chicago…or any major city for that matter.

Rep. Kinzinger, a veteran and military expert, who’s district stretches mile-upon-mile through corn and soybean fields, would appear to be the unlikeliest champion of bitcoin and blockchain innovation. That is of course until you meet him. Indeed, throughout our conversation, Rep. Kinzinger was genuinely inquisitive and determined to learn more about bitcoin and what he and his colleagues in Congress could do to promote and further innovation. How refreshing! What’s more, in his own words, Rep. Kinzinger said it was the free market potential of innovation in bitcoin and blockchain that spurred his interest and pursuit of House Resolution 835. Hurray!

From there, our conversation turned to more granular and detailed matters within the bitcoin space. Yet again, more encouraging signs. Rep. Kinzinger seemed in agreement that an on-ramp or probationary period for innovation, i.e. an opportunity to develop and even launch prior to regulatory oversight, was not an unreasonable request. As our attention turned to regulatory oversight, it was clear that AML and counter-terror financing remains a sensitive subject. Rep. Kinzinger appeared satisfied with regulatory requirements focused on guarding the entrances and exits that separate the fiat banking system and bitcoin.

Overall, it was extremely encouraging to hear such an open-minded and pro-innovation stance. Imagine all of the possibilities when bitcoin and blockchain innovations are allowed to flourish.

Similiar Blog Post

California State Senate SB401 – Steering the Future of Crypto Kiosks in the Golden State

August 17, 2020
This old-fashioned scam is more prevalent than you think — and your customers could be at risk. If you run a cryptocurrency exchange, kiosk...

California Bill to Regulate Crypto Kiosks: What’s at Stake for the Industry?

August 17, 2020
This old-fashioned scam is more prevalent than you think — and your customers could be at risk. If you run a cryptocurrency exchange, kiosk...

California Lawmakers discuss cryptocurrency regulation and consumer protection at the Capitol

August 17, 2020
This old-fashioned scam is more prevalent than you think — and your customers could be at risk. If you run a cryptocurrency exchange, kiosk...