New Hampshire has become the first state in the US to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve. House Bill 302 permits the state treasurer to invest up to 5% of specific public funds in Bitcoin and other eligible digital assets. Governor Kelly Ayotte signed it into law on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
According to the measure supported by Representative Keith Ammon and Majority Leader Jason Osborne, investments only apply to digital assets with a market valuation of at least $500 billion, which is currently the case only with Bitcoin (BTC). This suggests a shift in how states protect against economic disasters and manage financial holdings.
In comparison to several other states, like Arizona, where a similar bill reached the governor’s desk but was vetoed, the “Live Free or Die” state has set a positive benchmark. Furthermore, Florida has also withdrawn its proposed legislation, joining other states that have stalled Bitcoin reserve initiatives.
How the Bitcoin Legislation Works
The House passed the law to establish a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve by a vote of 192-179 after several close votes. The Senate ratified it 4-1 on April 23. The law will take effect 60 days after passage and establishes a framework for the state to amass digital assets for its reserves.
Moreover, New Hampshire has the flexibility to manage its Bitcoin assets as it sees fit. By investing directly in Bitcoin or through exchange-traded instruments, it can strike a compromise between security concerns and investment goals. It can also choose to self-custody the assets or hire skilled custodians.
The New Hampshire law’s successful passing serves as a model for other states considering enacting comparable laws, which might lead to a nationwide Bitcoin adoption wave.
By establishing such a reserve, New Hampshire sets a standard for financial innovation, which might draw blockchain and cryptocurrency companies to the area. This move reflects the growing institutional confidence in Bitcoin as a reliable store of value and inflation hedge.
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