After Surprise Delay, Senate Democrats Move to Revive Crypto Market Bill

Senate Democrats restart talks on the crypto market bill after a delayed markup, as Senate committees move forward with parallel drafts.

Senate Democrats have returned to negotiations on the long-awaited crypto market bill after an unexpected delay in its markup last month.

Lawmakers are now meeting behind closed doors to address unresolved issues, as pressure builds from the White House and industry groups to advance the legislation before key political deadlines.

Senate Democrats Resume Closed-Door Talks

Senate Democrats are holding a closed-door meeting to restart discussions on the crypto market bill.

This meeting marks the first formal discussion among Democratic lawmakers since the markup was postponed.

According to journalist Eleanor Terrett, the meeting is taking place later on Wednesday.

Lawmakers are expected to exchange views on outstanding concerns within the CLARITY Act.

The delay had slowed momentum, but staff and senators are now seeking alignment. The goal is to prepare the bill for a future markup and renewed committee action.

Focus on Regulatory Clarity and Committee Progress

The crypto market bill seeks to define regulatory oversight for digital assets.

It outlines how authority would be divided between the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.

The legislation remains within the Senate committee process. However, progress has continued through parallel efforts across committees.

The Senate Agriculture Committee has already advanced its own draft of the bill.

Meanwhile, the Banking Committee is still working toward its markup, which remains pending.

White House Deadline and Election Pressure

The renewed talks come as the White House has set an informal deadline for resolving disputes.

Crypto firms and banking groups have been urged to reach compromises before the end of February.

Senate lawmakers also face a narrowing legislative calendar. The upcoming midterm elections have reduced the available window for passing complex legislation.

Chris Niebuhr, senior research analyst at Beacon Policy Advisors, noted timing concerns.

“The closer and closer you get to August, the harder and harder this gets to get done,” he said.

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Optimism Around Timing and Passage Prospects

Despite delays, administration officials remain optimistic about the bill’s progress.

Patrick Witt, Executive Director of the President’s Council of Advisors for Digital Assets, said passage could come soon.

In a recent interview, Witt stated he could see the bill signed into law as early as April. He pointed to growing traction across Senate committees.

Market-based forecasts also suggest cautious confidence. Polymarket traders currently assign a 60% chance that the legislation will become law in 2026, despite earlier setbacks.

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