On March 24, 2025, Kentucky officially legalized digital asset rights with Governor Andy Beshear’s signing of HB701 into law. The bill guarantees the right to self-custody, run blockchain nodes, and engage in digital asset transactions, marking a major step forward in state-level crypto regulation and placing Kentucky among the most pro-crypto states in the U.S.

🧾 What Does HB701 Do?

• Guarantees the right to self-custody digital assets, protecting hardware wallets and private keys.
• Legalizes the operation of blockchain nodes and participation in networks without interference or discrimination.
• Excludes digital asset activity from outdated securities and money transmission laws, reducing legal uncertainty.
• Mirrors similar legislation passed in Oklahoma, suggesting a growing national trend in state-level digital rights frameworks.

“The right to self-custody, run a node, and use digital assets is now protected for millions of Americans without fear of discrimination.”
– Satoshi Action Fund

🇺🇸 Kentucky Emerges as a Digital Asset Leader

• Introduced by Representative Adam Bowling, HB701 strengthens Kentucky’s bid to be a top destination for blockchain innovation and investment.
• This move comes as part of a broader effort to build a legal foundation for decentralized technologies, empowering residents to take control of their financial lives.
• Positive reactions poured in from pro-crypto organizations, including the Satoshi Action Fund, which has been instrumental in supporting digital asset legislation across multiple states.

📉 Bitcoin Market Snapshot Amid Regulatory Changes

• BTC Price: $87,356.62
• Market Cap: $1.73 trillion
• 24-Hour Volume: $32.26 billion
• 7-Day Gain: +5.59%
• 30-Day Drop: -9.20%
  (Source: CoinMarketCap)

While price action remains volatile, many experts believe pro-crypto legislation like HB701 will boost adoption, attract blockchain businesses, and signal a more mature regulatory environment.

Hidden Insight

By excluding digital assets from legacy securities and transmission laws, Kentucky effectively reduces red tape for DeFi developers and node operators. This could spark a wave of innovation and business migration to the state, especially as federal regulation remains gridlocked.