On March 28, 2025, California Assembly Bill 1052 was amended to focus on Bitcoin and crypto investor protections. Titled “Digital Assets,” it safeguards self-custody rights, prohibits taxation based on digital asset usage, and prevents conflicts of interest for public officials. The bill aligns with a national movement, amid growing acceptance of Bitcoin across California’s merchant landscape.
On March 28, 2025, California Assembly Bill 1052, initially known as the Money Transmission Act, was revised significantly to enhance Bitcoin and crypto investor protections. It has been rebranded as the “Digital Assets” bill, emphasizing self-custody rights for nearly 40 million Californians. The legislation notably prohibits public entities from restricting or taxing digital assets just for being used as payment, affirming their legitimacy in private transactions.
Furthermore, the bill amends the California Political Reform Act of 1974 to prevent public officials from engaging in digital asset transactions that may lead to conflicts of interest. Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, leading the charge from the Banking and Finance Committee, has pushed these amendments forward, which are now in the “desk process” awaiting their initial reading.
At present, BTC Maps reports that 99 merchants in California accept Bitcoin payments, alongside significant players like Ripple Labs, Solana Labs, and Kraken, solidifying the state’s footprint in the digital asset arena. This legislative effort mirrors a wider trend nationally, with nearly 100 Bitcoin-related bills being introduced in 35 states. Texas and Kentucky have recently made strides with a Bitcoin strategic reserve bill and a Bitcoin Rights bill, respectively.
California’s Assembly Bill 1052 represents a progressive approach toward cryptocurrency regulation, enhancing rights for digital asset investors while aligning with national trends in Bitcoin legislation. The legislation not only safeguards individual rights related to self-custody but also affirms the validity of digital assets in private transactions, aiming to create a safe environment for crypto commerce across the state.
Original Source: coinmarketcap.com
