U.S. House Proposes 20-Year Hold Period for Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, H.R.8957

According to the U.S. House of Representatives, on June 5, the House introduced H.R.8957 (ARMA, American Reserve Modernization Act) establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve with a 20-year minimum hold period. The proposal, originally introduced by Alaska Representative Nicholas Begich on May 21, directs the Treasury to hold Bitcoin seized through criminal or civil forfeiture. The legislation mandates quarterly proof-of-reserve audits by independent third parties and allows states to voluntarily hold Bitcoin in separate federal accounts.

The bill requires the Treasury and Commerce Department to study budget-neutral methods to increase Bitcoin holdings within 180 days, including converting non-Bitcoin digital assets, utilizing seized assets, voluntary donations, and exploring Federal Reserve mechanisms.