S 8901 New York Senate · 2025 Regular Session

Prohibits unlicensed activities of virtual currency businesses

This bill requires virtual currency businesses (like exchanges or wallet services) operating in the state to hold a valid license. It prohibits unlicensed operations and imposes escalating criminal penalties based on the value of transactions: misdemeanors for basic violations, and felonies (ranging from class E to class C) for unlicensed activities involving $25,000+ in 30 days or $250,000+ yearly, with higher thresholds triggering more severe penalties. The law directly affects anyone conducting virtual currency transactions without state authorization, establishing clear financial thresholds that determine the severity of criminal charges.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 14, 2026 Last action Jan 14, 2026
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Committee
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Jan 14, 2026
Committee
REFERRED TO BANKS
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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P
Photo of Zellnor Myrie
Zellnor Myrie
DDemocratic
NY
20