TO AUTHORIZE THE INTRODUCTION OF A NONAPPROPRIATION BILL TO REGULATE THE IMPACT ON WATER USAGE AND THE ELECTRICAL GRID BY BLOCKCHAIN NETWORKS AND DIGITAL ASSET MINING.

This bill authorizes the creation of a new law to regulate how blockchain networks and digital asset mining operations affect Arkansas's water supplies and electric grid. It would require the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission to monitor water usage and allow the commission to shut down facilities that excessively consume groundwater. Additionally, it would task the Arkansas Public Service Commission with monitoring the impact on the electric grid and permitting utilities to halt service to mining operations that threaten grid reliability. The bill also mandates that the relevant agencies create specific rules to enforce these monitoring and enforcement powers by January 1, 2027.