Illinois has taken a bold step by introducing a bill to create a Bitcoin reserve, making it one of the first US states to officially recognize Bitcoin as a financial savings tool.
The move also means Illinois wants to store Bitcoin in its treasury, just like money in a savings account. The bill, called House Bill 1844 (HB1844), was introduced by Illinois State Representative John Cabello.
It suggests creating a special Bitcoin fund in the state treasury. According to the bill, the state treasurer must hold any BTC in this fund for at least five years before deciding what to do with it. After five years, Illinois can choose to sell, transfer, or even exchange it for another cryptocurrency.
Why This Is a Smart Move
Holding Bitcoin as part of a state’s financial strategy is a bold and modern decision. Bitcoin is known for its potential to grow in value over time, which means Illinois could benefit if the price goes up. This also helps the state prepare for a future where digital currencies become more common in finance.
Mouloukou Sanoh , CEO of MANSA, a decentralized payment network, believes this is a step in the right direction. He says it shows Illinois is ready to bring cryptocurrency into traditional finance and lead the way in blockchain innovation.
ILLINOIS WANTS TO ADD BITCOIN TO THE STATE’S PORTFOLIO
State Rep. John Cabello just pushed a bill to start a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.
If the bill passes, Illinois could hold Bitcoin as a state asset—basically buying Bitcoin now and hoping its value spikes.
It’s a big move… pic.twitter.com/DoNmRic2hT
— Mario Nawfal’s Roundtable (@RoundtableSpace) January 29, 2025
Illinois isn’t the only state interested in a Bitcoin reserve. Arizona’s Senate recently advanced its own Bitcoin reserve bill, aiming to allow public funds and pensions to invest in Bitcoin. Meanwhile, Texas has also proposed creating a Bitcoin reserve as part of its 2025 legislative plans.
BIG BREAKING: I can confirm that Arizona has become the 1st state in the nation to pass out of committee a bill to create a ‘Strategic Bitcoin Reserve’.
The bill will soon move to a floor vote in the Senate. Congrats to co-sponsors @WendyRogersAZ and @JeffWeninger for their… pic.twitter.com/nUjt5HccbZ
— Dennis Porter (@Dennis_Porter_) January 27, 2025
What’s Next?
The bill has been sent to the Rules Committee for further discussion before it can be approved. If successful, Illinois will officially become one of the first US states to hold Bitcoin as part of its financial strategy. This could encourage other states to do the same, paving the way for broader cryptocurrency adoption across the country.
Disclaimer
The information discussed by Altcoin Buzz is not financial advice. This is for educational, entertainment, and informational purposes only. Any information or strategies are thoughts and opinions relevant to the accepted levels of risk tolerance of the writer/reviewers and their risk tolerance may be different than yours. We are not responsible for any losses that you may incur as a result of any investments directly or indirectly related to the information provided. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are high-risk investments so please do your due diligence. Copyright Altcoin Buzz Pte Ltd.
