New Bill Seeks to Lock In Strategic Bitcoin Reserve for 20 Years – Is It a Game Changer?

A bipartisan bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives aims to enshrine a strategic Bitcoin reserve into federal law, cementing one of President Trump's key campaign promises for the crypto industry.

What the ARMA Act Proposes

The American Reserve Modernization Act (ARMA), introduced by Rep. Nick Begich (R-AK) and co-led by Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME), would:

• Direct the Treasury Department to create and maintain a Bitcoin reserve for at least 20 years.
• Establish a stockpile for other cryptocurrencies held by the government.
• Consolidate billions of dollars in digital assets currently held across federal agencies (from forfeitures and penalties).
• Require a proof-of-reserve report for transparency.

Why It Matters

President Trump created a strategic Bitcoin reserve via executive order in May 2025, but its implementation has been slow. The ARMA Act would give it the "weight of law" and protect it from political shifts. As Rep. Golden stated, "Administrations have auctioned [crypto] off or held it in reserve, according to the whims of the executive branch."

Challenges and Criticism

• Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has ruled out any agency purchases of Bitcoin, dampening hopes for large-scale acquisitions.
• Critics like Rep. Maxine Waters argue that crypto has no inherent value and shouldn't be treated as a strategic reserve asset.
• The bill faces an uphill battle in Congress, especially with the midterm elections approaching.

The Bigger Picture

The ARMA Act is part of a broader push to legitimize Bitcoin as a national reserve asset. Similar efforts include Sen. Cynthia Lummis's BITCOIN Act, which proposes purchasing 1 million Bitcoin over five years.

While the bill has 17 original co-sponsors, its fate remains uncertain. However, it signals a growing bipartisan interest in integrating Bitcoin into the U.S. financial system.