In a significant move for the Bitcoin sector, the Pennsylvania House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee has approved the Cryptocurrency Energy Conservation Act. This comes after the original proposal to impose a two-year ban on Bitcoin mining in the state was removed, following influential pushback from labor unions.

NEW: 🇺🇸 Pennsylvania House committee passes the Cryptocurrency Energy Conservation Act, removing the proposal to ban #Bitcoin ⛏ mining in the state, bowing to labor pressure. 🙌 pic.twitter.com/sCzlRGxxhF

— Bitcoin News (@BitcoinNewsCom) October 17, 2023

Pennsylvania Revokes Bitcoin Mining Ban Proposal

The Cryptocurrency Energy Conservation Act experienced a hiatus since its introduction on June 21. However, the Pennsylvania House Committee, under the leadership of Democratic Representative Greg Vitali, took the landmark decision to pass the bill with 13 votes to 12, leaving out the contentious mining ban proposal.

Democratic Pressure Influences Vital Decision

In a candid revelation, Vitali mentioned his interactions with The Pennsylvania Capital-Star, stating that pressure from Democratic Party leaders led to the removal of the moratorium. Citing the immense influence of building trade labor unions, he commented, “Frankly, [the unions have] the ear of House Democrats, and they have the ability to peel off members who would otherwise be supportive of good environmental policy.”

The newly approved act will mandate crypto miners in the state to provide detailed reports encompassing energy and water usage, emissions, and more, ensuring better oversight and regulation of the industry.

Embracing Cleaner Energy Sources

Amidst regulatory discussions, Bitcoin miners are already exploring cleaner energy alternatives. Stronghold Digital Mining, a notable player in the crypto mining sector, is converting waste from two acquired coal-burning power plants to power Bitcoin mining rigs in Pennsylvania.

Concurrently, TeraWulf, another major mining entity, runs a nuclear-powered operation within the state. Such initiatives underline the evolving approach towards eco-friendly crypto mining practices.

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