Arkansas Moves to Ban Crypto Mining Operations Near Military Bases
Arkansas lawmakers push for a bill to prohibit crypto mining near military facilities, addressing security and environmental concerns.
Arkansas Moves to Ban Crypto Mining Operations Near Military Bases
Arkansas lawmakers have introduced a new Senate Bill (SB 60) aimed at prohibiting crypto mining operations within a 30-mile radius of military facilities in the state. The legislation, introduced on January 15, focuses on security and noise concerns associated with crypto mining near military sites.
The proposed bill seeks to amend the Arkansas Data Centers Act of 2023 and specifically targets military bases, camps, hospitals, clinics, and arsenals. However, it includes a grandfather clause that allows existing facilities to remain operational until December 31, 2023.
Related Legislative Action
The push for the ban follows a May 2024 order from the Biden administration, which blocked a Chinese-owned crypto mining company from setting up near a military base in Wyoming. The Arkansas bill is notable for targeting a crypto mining facility under construction in Lonoke County, adjacent to the Little Rock Air Force Base, owned by Interstate Holdings.
Local officials, including Cabot Mayor Ken Kincade, have raised concerns about the noise pollution from such operations. Kincade stated, “These centers cause loud noise disturbances and pollution that negatively affect our well-being.” Senator Ricky Hill emphasized, “This is a national security concern.”
Conversely, Dustin Curtis, VP of Interstate Holdings, expressed that the facility complies with all applicable regulations and argued the noise level would be less than that of a nearby state highway.
Listening to public sentiment and considering past incidents of noise regulation enforcement, the Arkansas Senate is aiming to balance development and community concerns in the rapidly evolving crypto landscape.
