Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs signed HB 2749 into law on May 7, 2025, allowing the state to convert unclaimed assets into cryptocurrency reserves.
The law establishes Arizona as a pioneer in state-level public sector cryptocurrency management, affecting government asset handling strategies and possibly influencing similar measures in other states.
Arizona’s New Law on Crypto Asset Conversion
The signing of House Bill 2749 by Governor Katie Hobbs marks a shift in Arizona’s crypto asset policy. Arizona will use unclaimed property like dormant bank accounts to create digital reserves. According to Governor Katie Hobbs, “The reserve is not used for investment, but instead receives unclaimed virtual assets, airdrops, and staking rewards and keeps them stored…” Representative Jeff Weninger spearheaded this initiative, aiming at innovative management of digital assets. The focus remains on utilizing unclaimed property rather than tax dollars or retirement funds.
Potential Model for State Cryptocurrency Use
The conversion to cryptocurrency reserves is novel for state funds, receiving attention as a potential model for others. With Bitcoin identified as a key asset, implications for digital asset policies are significant. The law requires using regulated custody services, minimizing risk. Arizona retains the ability to gain yields from digital assets without significant market turmoil, presenting a cautious approach.
Arizona’s Unique Strategy in Asset Management
Texas set a precedent with digital asset reserves, but Arizona’s approach remains unique with unclaimed property conversion. The measure is watched closely by policymakers nationwide. Experts note Arizona’s strategy aligns with cautious public asset management, offering a model amid debates over crypto’s role in public finance. The focus on unclaimed assets diffuses direct budget risks.
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