- If the proposed legislation passes, proof-of-work mining of Bitcoin and Ethereum (PoW) would be prohibited.
- The New York crypto community has responded to this challenge and launched a public campaign in defense of cryptocurrency mining.
Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (Ether) mining could be banned on Monday, April 25 if the New York State Assembly passes Bill A7389C. If so, New York will become the first state to ban crypto mining activities in the United States.
The proposed bill is being widely opposed by miners and crypto enthusiasts in that state. One of the BTC support associations that has reacted most strongly has been the Bitcoin Advocacy Group, which has asked the New York crypto community to oppose this legal proposal.
State lawmakers led by Assemblywoman Anna Kelles, the bill’s proponent, plan to amend the New York State Environmental Conservation Law.
Review of the environmental impact of mining
The bill “establishes a moratorium on cryptocurrency mining operations that use proof-of-work authentication methods to validate blockchain transactions.” In addition, "provides that such operations shall be subject to a full generic environmental impact statement review", within the framework "of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection (CLCPA) objectives established in the statute in 2019". The assembly members recognize that the underlying technology in the blockchain ” is an innovative technology that allows for the recording and efficient transfer of information.” But they also point out that said information is linked to the “environmental issue” and social justice.
“We must not go backwards on our commitment, in law, to prevent these disastrous impacts to the residents of New York,” the proponents warn.
A dangerous precedent for the rest of the country
If this legislation is approved in the state of New York, it would create a dangerous precedent for cryptocurrency mining in other states of the country. The environmental impact of Bitcoin and Ethereum mining is not only being debated by lawmakers in New York.
Also in the US Congress there are voices that are demanding to reduce energy consumption in cryptocurrency mining activities due to its impact on carbon emissions and future goals related to climate change.
The New York crypto community has reacted by asking BTC and Ether supporters to contact their local representatives and explain their opposition to the bill under discussion.
Why You Should Care
- New York state has so far been one of the friendliest in the country when it comes to Bitcoin mining.
- In fact, the mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, is one of the most enthusiastic and has promised that he will turn the Big Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) into a financial center for cryptocurrencies.