New Hampshire and North Dakota have joined the growing list of U.S. states introducing legislation to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, a move signaling increasing interest among state lawmakers in diversifying state treasuries with Bitcoin. The bills represent a continuation of legislative efforts aimed at integrating Bitcoin (BTC) into financial strategies, though not without political nuances.

In New Hampshire, Representative Keith Ammon introduced the bill, which avoids explicitly mentioning Bitcoin, instead referring broadly to “digital assets.” This language allows lawmakers to navigate potential political resistance.

Similarly, in North Dakota, legislation was introduced by Representative Nathan Toman, Representative Josh Christy, and Senator Jeff Barta. The North Dakota bill already has 11 sponsors, underscoring significant legislative support.

These developments follow a November initiative in Pennsylvania, where state lawmakers proposed their own legislation for a Bitcoin reserve. Representative Mike Cabell, who supported the Pennsylvania measure, described Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and economic instability.

The introduction of state-level Bitcoin reserve bills comes amidst heightened national interest in Bitcoin policy. Talks of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve gained momentum over the summer when President-elect Donald Trump promised to make America the global leader in Bitcoin if elected. This pledge included plans for the Treasury Department to accumulate a substantial Bitcoin reserve.

As Trump prepares for his inauguration, industry advocates are closely monitoring whether the administration will act on these promises. Strike CEO Jack Mallers suggested Trump could issue an executive order making Bitcoin a reserve asset on “day one” of his presidency. However, others remain skeptical. Galaxy Digital founder Mike Novogratz commented that such a reserve is unlikely, pointing to logistical and political challenges.

The current developments in New Hampshire and North Dakota, coupled with previous efforts in Pennsylvania, reflect a growing trend among U.S. states to explore Bitcoin’s role in financial security. While legislative actions are advancing at the state level, the likelihood of a national Bitcoin reserve remains uncertain. According to betting platform Polymarket, there is only a 27% chance Trump will establish a Bitcoin reserve within his first 100 days in office, down from 45% in November.

Cointelegraph Article