Utah crypto-bill passes first Senate reading

Utah might become the first US state to accept bitcoin for state services. After passing through the House of Representatives with a slim majority of 38 'yes' votes against 36 'no' votes, the bill passed its first Senate reading. The Bill H.C.R 6, entitled "Concurrent resolution on payment options for State Services", backed by Todd Weiler, was initially introduced by Utah state representative Marc K. Roberts last month.

The bill proposes "the expanded use of Bitcoin in the state" and "the creation of the Council on Payment Options for State Services to study whether and how the state could accept Bitcoin as a valid form of payment".

If the bill is approved, Utah would be able to save money on payment processing fees, Roberts said.

"Therefore, be it resolved that the Legislature of the state of Utah, and the Governor concurring therein, recognizes the potential benefits that could come from the expanded use of Bitcoin in the state and recognizes that the state could be a key player in promoting the use of Bitcoin", he added.