Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act
Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act
Plain Language Summary
# Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would prevent the Federal Reserve from creating or using a digital version of the U.S. dollar (called a central bank digital currency or CBDC). It would also prohibit the Federal Reserve from offering banking services directly to individuals or maintaining personal accounts. Essentially, it blocks the Federal Reserve from developing what some describe as a "digital dollar" that could exist alongside physical cash. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill primarily affects the Federal Reserve and the federal government's ability to modernize currency systems.
It includes exceptions for certain activities, though these aren't detailed in the summary provided. Supporters argue the measure protects privacy by preventing potential government surveillance through digital currency tracking, while opponents might contend it limits financial innovation and the Federal Reserve's flexibility in managing the money supply. **Current Status** The bill (S. 1124) was introduced by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
CRS Official Summary
Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act This bill prohibits a Federal Reserve bank from offering products or services directly to an individual, maintaining an account on behalf of an individual, or issuing a central bank digital currency (i.e., a digital dollar). Further, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System is prohibited from using a central bank digital currency to implement monetary policy or from testing, studying, creating, or implementing a central bank digital currency, with exceptions as provided by the bill.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.