Why Bitcoin?

Bitcoin is Freedom, Security, and Infrastructure for the 21st Century

At the Rhode Island Bitcoin Policy Institute, we believe Bitcoin represents more than a new form of money. It’s the foundation for a more open, sovereign, and resilient economy.

A Nonpartisan Solution for Rhode Island’s Future

  • Bitcoin is neutral: It’s not controlled by any corporation, government, or political party.

  • Bitcoin is transparent: Every transaction is verifiable, every rule is enforced without bias.

  • Bitcoin is resilient: It runs 24/7, without permission, and cannot be inflated or censored.

In an era of rising surveillance and financial instability, Bitcoin offers Rhode Islanders a secure way to save, transact, and build across generations.

Why States Should Care

While Bitcoin operates globally, state governments are uniquely positioned to shape how it’s treated, taxed, and adopted locally. Early adopters like Rhode Island can:

  • Attract innovation and startups

  • Provide tax clarity for individuals and businesses

  • Build resilient infrastructure for public records, energy grids, and disaster recovery

  • Champion civil liberties in a digital-first economy

Key Benefits of Bitcoin for Rhode Island

Sound Money

Bitcoin has a fixed supply of 21 million coins—unlike fiat currency, it cannot be inflated away. That makes it ideal for long-term savings and planning.

Financial Sovereignty

Bitcoin empowers individuals and small businesses to access global commerce without relying on intermediaries or centralized banks.

Economic Development

Bitcoin businesses—including miners, app developers, exchanges, and payment services—create jobs and infrastructure in forward-looking states.

Cybersecurity & Infrastructure

Bitcoin’s blockchain is one of the most secure computing networks ever created. States can learn from its architecture to improve public recordkeeping, audit trails, and disaster resilience.

A Regulatory Opportunity, Not a Threat

Rather than ban, restrict, or misunderstand Bitcoin, Rhode Island can lead by creating clear, fair, and innovation-friendly policies.

That’s why we wrote Senate Bill S0451—to exempt small Bitcoin transactions from state income tax and create space for adoption.

This is just the beginning.