The US state of Arkansas has voted against a bill that mandates banning cryptocurrency mining near five military facilities.
The Arkansas Senate’s City, County, and Local Affairs Committee have reportedly rejected a bill that aimed to restrict crypto mining operations within 30 miles of five military facilities.
According to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, the legislation, which failed in a 6-1 vote on Thursday, sought to revoke existing business permits for crypto mining facilities located near military sites. The bill also included an emergency clause for immediate enactment, citing possible national and state security risks that accompany such operations, including those near military hospitals or clinics.
“The immediate enforcement of this act is crucial to protect the health and safety of Arkansas and its residents,” the bill stated.
Crypto mining’s proximity to military bases have always raised concerns for the federal government. In May, former President Joe Biden blocked Mine One Partners Limited, a crypto mining firm with majority Chinese ownership, from maintaining property near an Air Force base in Wyoming, citing national security risks.
Apart from posing security risks, crypto mining has been criticized for high energy consumption and environmental impact. In response, mining companies have been working to develop more sustainable technologies to mitigate these issues. Recently, US President Donald Trump voiced support for widespread Bitcoin mining in the US, aiming to establish the country as the crypto capital of the world.
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