Crypto market infrastructure legislation is expected to move to market next month. First reported by CryptoinAmerica, the Senate Banking Committee has selected January 15th as the date members will determine the language of the bill.
The CLARITY Act was passed by the US House of Representatives in July, and since then, the bill has been awaiting action in the Senate.
Draft legislation has circulated for some time as the various members debated the language on their version of the bill. The last draft (that we have) is viewable here.
The Senate has labeled its version of the legislation as the Responsible Financial Innovation Act (RFIA), which is primarily based on the House bill.
While the legislation is expected to be approved at the Committee level, a vote on the Senate floor is not a foregone conclusion. At the same time, the inevitability of digital assets and the need to outline structures and responsibilities are needed to support digital asset innovation as well as consumer protection.
If approved by the Senate, the bill could become law by mid-year. Then, regulators will begin implementing new rules to accelerate digital asset innovation.
As the US is home to the largest financial markets in the world, the legislation will help guide global rules with other nations looking to remain competitive.
Senator Cynthia Lummis, a staunchly pro-digital asset policymaker, posted on X:
For far too long, unclear rules have pushed digital asset companies offshore. Our market structure legislation changes that by establishing clear jurisdiction, strong protections, and ensuring America leads the way. Let’s get this done!
— Senator Cynthia Lummis (@SenLummis) January 2, 2026
Lummis has announced her intent not to run for re-election, thus depriving the crypto sector of a solid advocate.