New Hampshire governor signs 'Blockchain Basic Law' to protect crypto use

New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte has signed the 'Blockchain Basic Law (HB639),' a bill designed to protect cryptocurrency innovation and usage within the state. The legislation guarantees individuals' rights to use self-custody wallets and make payments, and it establishes a dedicated procedure within the Superior Court for handling blockchain-related disputes. Furthermore, the law specifies that operating a node, mining, or staking does not require a separate money transmitter license. This move continues New Hampshire's series of pro-crypto policies, following last year's passage of a 'Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Bill' that allows up to 5% of public funds to be invested in Bitcoin and precious metals. However, the state's Executive Council did veto a proposal last week to issue municipal bonds backed by Bitcoin.