New Hampshire crypto protection bill takes effect, bans extra taxes

New Hampshire has enacted the 'Blockchain Basics Act' (HB639), a law designed to protect cryptocurrency users. The legislation prohibits state and local governments from restricting the use of digital assets for payments or holding them in self-custody wallets. It also bans the imposition of additional taxes solely for using digital assets. The act further clarifies that individuals and companies operating blockchain nodes, mining, or staking are not required to obtain money transmitter licenses, and that these activities are not considered the issuance or sale of securities, thereby providing greater regulatory certainty.