In a major move toward crypto adoption in the public sector, the California State Assembly has unanimously passed Assembly Bill 1180, allowing the state to accept cryptocurrency payments for official transactions. The legislation now advances to the California Senate for review, potentially making California a front-runner in incorporating digital assets into government financial systems.
Championed by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, Chair of the Assembly Committee on Banking and Finance, Assembly Bill 1180 aims to modernize how California handles public payments. The proposed legislation would allow the state to accept cryptocurrency assets—including Bitcoin—for various obligations such as taxes, fees, and fines.
Valencia described the bill as “a foundation for the future integration of digital payments across the state,” emphasizing its role in fostering a more innovative financial system.
The bill’s passage has received strong support from pro-crypto policy advocates, including Dennis Porter, who hailed it as a landmark achievement in the ongoing effort to bring blockchain technology and digital currencies into the core of public finance.
As Assembly Bill 1180 moves forward, the broader cryptocurrency market remains robust. Data from CoinMarketCap shows Bitcoin trading at $105,784.21, with a 24-hour trading volume of $45.27 billion and a market dominance of 63.15%. Bitcoin has risen 12.25% over the previous 30 days, despite a slight 0.35% decline in the last day. This shows that investors are still confident in the top digital asset.
The progress of Assembly Bill 1180 is drawing national attention, with analysts at Coincu Research noting that California’s leadership on cryptocurrency adoption may spark similar initiatives in other states. As the most populous state and a global technology powerhouse, California’s move to embrace crypto payments in public systems could drive broader regulatory innovation across the U.S.
Should the Senate approve the bill, AB 1180 would represent a pivotal transformation in how state governments interact with decentralized finance. It also signals rising public and institutional interest in cryptocurrency’s potential to streamline and diversify government payment frameworks.
Now pending debate and vote in the California Senate, Assembly Bill 1180 is one step away from becoming law. If passed, the legislation will authorize state agencies to accept Bitcoin and other digital currencies as official forms of payment for public services.
Experts view this development as a potential turning point in crypto-inclusive governance, with the power to redefine how residents engage with the state’s financial systems and usher in a more digitally adaptive public sector.
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