summary
Introduced
01/21/2025
01/21/2025
In Committee
02/04/2025
02/04/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
04/24/2025
04/24/2025
Introduced Session
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Bullion depositories. Defines "bullion" as refined silver or gold that has certain specified characteristics. Defines "specie" as bullion that is fabricated into products that are suitable for, or customarily used as, currency or a medium of exchange. Defines "specie legal tender" as: (1) specie coin issued by the United States government; or (2) any other specie that a federal court determines to be within state authority to make or designate as legal tender under the Constitution of the United States. Provides that bullion is not subject to assessment and taxation under Indiana's property tax statute. Provides that the exchange of one type or form of legal tender for another type or form of legal tender is exempt from the state gross retail tax. Provides that: (1) specie legal tender; and (2) electronic currency; are recognized as legal tender in Indiana. Provides that except as otherwise specifically provided by law or contract, a person may not compel any other person to tender or accept specie as legal tender. Provides that a prevailing party in an action for breach of any contract provision that expressly designates a type or form of specie as tender is entitled to specific performance of the contract provision.
AI Summary
This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for recognizing and using gold and silver as legal tender in Indiana, with several key provisions. The legislation defines important terms like "bullion" (refined precious metal with uniform content and purity), "electronic currency" (digital representation of precious metals), and "specie" (bullion fabricated into currency-like products). It requires the state treasurer to designate one or more bullion depositories where Indiana consumers can securely store bullion and establish deposit accounts, and mandates that an administrator oversee these accounts and facilitate electronic currency transactions. The bill exempts bullion from property tax assessments starting in 2026 and provides tax exemptions for transactions involving legal tender exchanges. Importantly, while the bill recognizes specie legal tender and electronic currency as valid forms of payment for private debts, taxes, and fees, it also stipulates that no person can be compelled to tender or accept specie as legal tender unless specifically agreed to in a contract. The legislation also provides legal recourse for contract breaches involving specified forms of specie, allowing prevailing parties to seek specific performance. The treasurer is required to implement these provisions by December 31, 2026, and must submit progress reports to the general assembly, signaling a careful, phased approach to introducing these new financial mechanisms.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Recommitted to Committee on Ways and Means pursuant to House Rule 126.3 (on 02/04/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
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