As Rhode Island enters the 2026 legislative session, the Rhode Island Bitcoin Policy Institute (RIBPI) is focused on building on the momentum of last year’s work. Our mission is to advance policies that strengthen financial sovereignty, expand access to open monetary networks, and position Rhode Island as a leader in digital infrastructure.

Goal 1: Re-Introducing S0451 + House Companion Bill

In 2025, we introduced S0451, a first-of-its-kind bill to exempt Bitcoin microtransactions from state income tax. This simple but powerful idea aligns Rhode Island with the digital economy by treating Bitcoin payments more like cash—removing unnecessary friction for everyday use.

In 2026, we’ll re-introduce this bill in the Senate and introduce a companion bill in the House. This dual-track approach ensures broader visibility, bipartisan support, and more opportunities for the bill to advance through committee.

Goal 2: Building Legislative Understanding

Emerging technology requires trust, not just legislation. To that end, RIBPI will host trainings and lunch-and-learns for specific House and Senate subcommittees, including:

• Finance – how Bitcoin can broaden the tax base without raising rates.

• Emerging Tech & AI – how Bitcoin empowers small businesses and workers, and why proof-of-work mining can drive renewable adoption.

• Judiciary – how clear state rules can prevent federal overreach.

Goal 3: Exploring New Opportunities

Beyond S0451, we’re developing additional initiatives, including:

• Building an extensive case study on Bitcoin as a Strategic Reserve Asset for Rhode Island.

• A Digital Commons Resolution to recognize Bitcoin’s role as open, neutral infrastructure.

• Public Sector Pilot Programs to test Bitcoin for remittances, payments, and record-keeping.

Why It Matters

Rhode Island has always been a state that punches above its weight—small, scrappy, and unafraid to chart its own course. By embracing Bitcoin as financial infrastructure, Rhode Island can attract entrepreneurs, protect citizens from inflation, and ensure our state leads in the digital economy.