BTC Update: New Hampshire Becomes the First State in the U.S. to Accept Bitcoin

New Hampshire has taken the lead as the first state in the U.S. to create a Bitcoin reserve fund, allowing up to 97% of public funds to be held in Bitcoin and other significant digital assets. This development could initiate a trend across the country, highlighting Bitcoin’s role as a key asset in the financial strategies of states. Additionally, New Hampshire has set up a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Fund. Recent reports indicate that on May 6, 2025, Governor Kelly Ayotte enacted House Bill 302, permitting the state treasury to invest up to 5% of public funds in Bitcoin and other digital assets that have a market capitalization over $500 billion. This marks a groundbreaking advancement in the adoption of cryptocurrency at the state level. This law, based on a framework from the nonprofit Satoshi Action Fund, enables the state treasurer to make direct investments in Bitcoin or through regulated investment options such as exchange-traded products (ETPs). As noted in a previous Crypto News Flash (CNF) report, Bitcoin is considered one of the leading options for cryptocurrency adoption. Although the North Dakota proposal doesn’t specifically mention Bitcoin, its significant market presence positions it as the main candidate. In New Hampshire, a similar law has been proposed which limits inclusion to digital assets that have a market capitalization of over $500 billion, primarily affecting Bitcoin. To enhance security, all digital assets must be held in U.S.-regulated custody, housed in either state-managed wallets or with vetted custodians. Dennis Porter, CEO of Satoshi Action, praised this initiative, saying, “Satoshi Action created the framework, New Hampshire has made it a legal requirement, and now treasurers across the country can adopt this guide.” Possible Nationwide Consequences. New Hampshire’s initiative may serve as a model for other states to adopt comparable actions, a point also highlighted in a recent tweet by Eleanor Terrett. New Hampshire has made history as the first U.S. state to officially enact a law allowing for a strategic Bitcoin reserve. This law permits the state treasurer to buy Bitcoin directly or via an exchange-traded product (ETP). Other states, such as Arizona and Texas, have considered similar measures, but New Hampshire’s successful legislation could encourage wider acceptance of Bitcoin as a reserve asset. Additionally, Bitcoin’s market performance is being influenced by these policy changes.