Committee advances broad blockchain bill: self‑custody protections, mining zoning, limited state investment authority

After extended discussion and public testimony, the House Economic Development Committee passed the second substitute of HB 230, a broad package of blockchain and digital‑innovation measures that (1) affirms individuals' right to self custody of digital assets, (2) creates a legal and zoning framework for larger‑scale digital‑asset mining operations, and (3) permits the state treasurer discretion to invest up to 5% of specified public reserve funds in digital assets that meet market‑cap and custody standards.

Sponsor remarks and task‑force background: Representative Tuscher explained the bill grew from the state's Blockchain and Digital Innovation Task Force and was unanimously recommended by that body. Task‑force members and witnesses said the measure is intended to balance innovation with investor protections and local control. "This bill protects self custody," the sponsor said, and the bill also "establishes clear guidelines to…