TO AUTHORIZE THE INTRODUCTION OF A NONAPPROPRIATION BILL TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS DATA CENTERS ACT OF 2023; AND TO REGULATE THE IMPACT ON WATER USAGE AND THE ELECTRIC GRID BY BLOCKCHAIN NETWORKS AND DIGITAL ASSET MINING.

This Senate resolution authorizes a new bill to regulate blockchain networks and digital asset mining operations in Arkansas by giving state agencies the power to monitor their impact on water supplies and the electric grid. Under the proposed rules, the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission could order the closure of mining facilities that excessively consume groundwater, while the Arkansas Public Service Commission could halt service to operations threatening grid reliability. The bill requires these agencies to create specific regulations by January 1, 2025, and ensures those rules receive legislative approval before taking effect.