Bill > HB1239

This bill introduces comprehensive protections and definitions related to blockchain technology, digital assets, and digital asset mining across different jurisdictions in North Dakota. The bill provides protection for digital asset mining activities in residential and commercial zones, preventing local governments from imposing overly restrictive noise regulations or zoning changes without proper notice. It defines key terms such as "digital asset mining" (using computer hardware to validate blockchain data), and establishes that a digital asset mining business is an operation drawing more than one megawatt of power. The bill also provides detailed definitions for blockchain-related concepts like blockchain protocols, digital assets, nodes, and staking, and explicitly prohibits governing authorities from requiring or accepting central bank digital currency. Furthermore, the legislation protects individuals' and businesses' rights to accept digital assets as payment and to operate blockchain nodes, develop blockchain software, and participate in blockchain staking. Importantly, the bill ensures that local governments (counties, cities, and townships) cannot unreasonably restrict digital asset mining operations, providing a legal framework that supports technological innovation while maintaining reasonable community standards.

Business and Industry

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1239.html