Kristin Smith, CEO of the Blockchain Association, a group committed to promoting innovation in the cryptocurrency sector, praised U.S. Representatives Larry Bucshon (R-IN) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) for presenting the bipartisan Deploying American Blockchains Act of 2023. In a statement released on December 5, Smith expressed her belief that the U.S. should be at the forefront of blockchain technology.
"It's critical that the United States leads the development and deployment of blockchain technology," Smith said in her statement. "Blockchain Association thanks Reps. Bucshon (R-IN) and Blunt Rochester (D-DE) for their focus on innovation and applauds the introduction of the 'Deploying American Blockchains Act of 2023. Blockchain technology has world-changing applications, and this bipartisan bill rightfully advances our nation's competitiveness in this nascent space."
On December 5, Bucshon and Blunt Rochester announced the introduction of the bill through a press release. The proposed legislation would instruct the Secretary of Commerce to establish a "Blockchain Deployment Program." The Secretary would act as the main advisor to the President on policy matters related to blockchain's use, application, and competitiveness. Furthermore, it would empower the Secretary to form advisory committees to encourage blockchain usage among government entities and across various sectors in U.S. economy.
The representatives introduced this bill along with another one titled Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act. According to a press release, both pieces of legislation aim to fortify weaknesses in U.S. supply chains and ensure that America remains competitive in emerging technologies. "As America navigates the complexities of the modern digital age, we must continue to improve the resiliency of our supply chains and foster innovative uses of blockchain technologies throughout the U.S. economy," Bucshon stated.
The House Energy and Commerce Committee reviewed the Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act among 44 other bills in a full committee markup session on December 5, as per a press release.
Before joining the Blockchain Association, Smith served in both House and Senate offices and advocated for companies operating in tech-focused industries like telecommunications, as per information available on the Blockchain Association's website.
