Senate Democrats Review GOP Proposal on Crypto Market Structure Bill

Lawmakers from both parties are negotiating a revised crypto market structure bill with over 30 proposed amendments, aiming for markup before the holiday recess despite timeline disagreements.

Summary

Bipartisan negotiations on a crypto market structure bill continued this week, with Sen. Cynthia Lummis expressing hope to release a new draft by week's end. Senate Banking Republicans submitted over 30 amendments to Democrats, including 38 concessions such as White House-supported language on SEC and CFTC appointments, ethics provisions, consumer protection standards, bankruptcy clauses, a federal baseline for crypto ATMs, and risk management rules. Chair Tim Scott and Republicans aim for a markup next week before the holiday recess, while some Democrats question the feasibility of this timeline.

Terms & Concepts
  • Crypto market structure bill: Proposed legislation outlining rules and frameworks for trading, custody, and regulation of cryptocurrencies.
  • SEC: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, responsible for enforcing federal securities laws and regulating the securities industry.
  • CFTC: The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, tasked with regulating the nation’s derivatives markets, including futures, swaps, and certain options.