West Virginia Considers Crypto Investments with New Bill

West Virginia’s proposed SB 143 would permit the state to invest up to 10% of public funds in precious metals and large-cap digital assets. Currently, only Bitcoin qualifies, due to its market cap surpassing $750 billion.

The bill represents a legislative move to diversify investments and hedges against inflation by incorporating cryptocurrencies and precious metals. This decision to explore alternative assets could redefine state-level investment strategies.

Introduced by State Sen. Chris Rose, the bill, named the “Inflation Protection Act of 2026,” suggests state treasury investment in precious metals and digital assets. It includes Bitcoin, the only digital currency currently meeting the market cap criterion.

The proposal allows a maximum of 10% of public funds to be invested. It mandates the use of secure custody options and permits yield generation through staking to ensure asset safety and efficiency.

Other U.S. states like Texas and Arizona have permitted state-level crypto investments. This trend might expand blockchain’s role in public finance, potentially influencing similar legislative moves across other states.

An analysis of expected outcomes focuses on the potential inflation shielding effects and diversification advantages. The bill’s reliance on major assets like Bitcoin implies regulatory challenges and necessitates oversight, as policymakers examine the complexities and promising aspects of digital currencies.