Arkansas proposal would bar foreign-linked mining computers and software

The proposed bill would bar covered computers and software from digital asset mining. It would apply to digital asset mining businesses and individual miners, including people mining at home. A covered foreign entity includes certain listed parties, people or entities domiciled in China or Russia, parties controlled or influenced by those governments, and their affiliates or subsidiaries. The proposed bar applies when the computer was made or assembled by a covered foreign entity, or the software was developed by one.

A miner or mining business convicted of violating the proposed ban would face criminal penalties. The penalties would apply to a digital asset mining business or digital asset miner that violates the proposed ban. A conviction is required for either penalty. The proposed penalties distinguish a first offense from a second or later offense.