Missouri Advances Bill for Bitcoin Reserve Fund

Missouri lawmakers advanced a bill on February 19, 2026, that would allow the state to establish a Bitcoin strategic reserve fund, marking a renewed effort to integrate cryptocurrency into public financial management. House Bill 2080, introduced in January by Representative Ben Keathley, was referred to the House Commerce Committee for further review, including public hearings and potential amendments before a full House vote.

The legislation proposes creating a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund within the state treasury, to be managed by the State Treasurer under Chapter 30 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri. The fund would accept Bitcoin through gifts, grants, donations, bequests, or devises from eligible Missouri residents or certain government entities. Once contributed, the Bitcoin must be held for a minimum of five years before it can be sold, transferred, converted, or otherwise appropriated. This holding period is designed to shield the assets from short-term market volatility.

Security measures outlined in the bill require the use of cold storage protocols and other custodial safeguards to protect the holdings. The State Treasurer could contract with qualified, U.S.-based...