SR9
To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Prohibit The Use Of A Computer Manufactured By A Covered Foreign Entity In Digital Asset Mining And Prohibit The Use Of Certain Software In Digital Asset Mining.
Last Action (April 6, 2026): Read the first time, rules suspended, read the second time and placed on the calendar.
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AI-Generated Summary
Senate Resolution 9 authorizes the introduction of legislation that seeks to prohibit digital asset mining businesses and miners in Arkansas from using hardware or software produced by 'covered foreign entities.' A covered foreign entity is defined as any individual, government, or party located in or controlled by the People's Republic of China or the Russian Federation, as well as those listed on U.S. government screening or entity lists. The proposed bill mandates that entities currently engaged in digital asset mining must cease the use of this restricted technology. Violations of these provisions are categorized as a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense and escalate to a Class D felony for subsequent offenses. The primary intent is to secure the state's digital infrastructure against potential risks posed by foreign-influenced technology.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries are intended to be the national security and digital infrastructure interests of the State of Arkansas and the United States, as the bill aims to prevent foreign influence or potential surveillance capabilities from being integrated into the state's digital asset mining operations.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary entities negatively impacted are digital asset mining businesses and individual miners operating in Arkansas who currently rely on hardware or software manufactured or developed by companies associated with China or Russia. These operators would face significant capital costs to replace existing equipment and software, potential operational disruptions, and the risk of criminal prosecution for non-compliance.
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