HB639 completes registration and defines legal protections for digital asset use
New Hampshire House Bill HB639 completed its registration process on July 1. According to the bill text, neither the state nor local governments may restrict an individual from using digital assets as a means of payment. The measure also protects the right to hold assets through self-custodied wallets, drawing a clear line against government limits on wallet-based control of funds. In the same section, the bill states that public authorities may not impose additional taxes merely because digital assets are being used, adding a further layer of protection around day-to-day crypto activity within the state.
Node operation, mining, and staking are exempt from money transmitter licensing
HB639 also addresses core blockchain infrastructure activities. Under the bill, individuals and businesses that operate nodes, engage in mining, or provide staking-related activity are not required to obtain a money transmitter license. The text further states that such conduct is not to be treated as the issuance or sale of securities. This is a notable legal clarification because it directly covers several foundational functions that support blockchain networks. By separating these activities from money transmission and securities issuance, the bill provides a more explicit compliance position for market participants operating in New Hampshire.
New blockchain dispute court to handle civil cases
Beyond the operational and tax provisions, HB639 authorizes the New Hampshire Supreme Court to establish a dedicated blockchain dispute court. The purpose of the court is to hear civil disputes related to blockchain matters through a specialized judicial channel. Under the bill’s timeline, the measure will take effect 60 days after passage. The source text referenced for this update is available through the state legislative tracking page on LegiScan.