Missouri Pushes Ahead with a Strategic Reserve Bill as Bitcoin Gains Traction in the Heartland
The Missouri House advanced House Bill 2080 to the Commerce Committee for hearings and possible amendment. Lawmakers will hear expert testimony before a full floor vote. The committee stage gives the proposal a clearer path despite the session’s time constraints. The bill creates a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund within the state treasury, managed by the treasurer. Bitcoin can enter the fund as gifts, grants, donations, bequests, or transfers from eligible residents and certain agencies. Assets must remain locked for at least five years before any sale or transfer. Custody safeguards require cold‑storage and prohibit dealings with foreign or illicit actors; third‑party custodians may be used. The treasurer must issue a biennial report detailing holdings, transactions, and security measures. Reports are due by December 31 of each even‑numbered year. Proponents argue the reserve lets the state accept crypto gifts without risking general funds. Critics warn of Bitcoin’s price volatility and political exposure of public assets. Debate will focus on the adequacy of safeguards and the necessity of state involvement in cryptocurrency.























