New Hampshire governor establishes new commission to study crypto

Chris Sununu, the governor of New Hampshire, has announced a new state commission focused on the study of cryptocurrencies, their impact, and the types of legislation the Granite State may wish to pursue.

According to a February 9 executive order, the commission will “[m]ake findings and determinations regarding the role and effectiveness of current state laws and regulations governing cryptocurrencies and other digital assets and the reasons why modifications and improvements to such laws and regulations are necessary,” among other areas.

The commission will include stakeholders from the state’s Bank Department, Attorney General’s Office, both chambers of the state legislature as well as “three public members with recognized experience with cryptocurrencies, digital assets and the provision of services to institutions or consumers with respect to digital assets.”

As noted by Sununu’s order, New Hampshire has seen a number of legislative bids related to crypto, including failed efforts to let state residents pay their tax obligations in the form of crypto. In a nod to the General Court’s work to date, the executive order contended that “this Commission will enable New Hampshire to institute comprehensive clear legislation based upon extension examination of this new landscape.”

In the coming months, the commission will prepare a report on their findings, which will then be made public.