A new law known as the “Blockchain Fundamental Laws” or HB 639 was recently passed in New Hampshire. The legislation was signed by Governor Kelly Ayotte and is currently being enforced by the New Hampshire Blockchain Council.
Details of HB 639
This newly signed law aims to ensure that people have the right to “self-custody” their digital assets. Simply put, this allows people to hold cryptocurrencies in their own wallets rather than relying on a bank or exchange.
It also protects citizens’ freedom to pay with cryptocurrency for legitimate goods and services without interference from federal, state, or local governments.
Moreover, HB 639 It protects those who manage the blockchain infrastructure from unfairly skirting the rules of more established financial institutions. This includes activities such as operating a node, mining or staking.
In particular, it aims to prevent these activities from being automatically classified as “money transfer” or “securities” activities.
What does this tell us about New Hampshire’s crypto stance?
Moreover, it protects blockchain “validators” from legal action or liability simply for performing this verification task. Additionally, the law creates a “Blockchain Dispute Brief,” which is a special court remedy or procedure administered primarily by judges or officials with blockchain expertise.
The purpose of this process is to handle blockchain and cryptocurrency-related cases more quickly and predictably than a general court.
This expands the scope of the first state-level “Strategic Bitcoin Reserve” established by New Hampshire in May 2025. For those unaware, HB 302 was signed allowing the state treasurer to invest up to 5% of public funds in Bitcoin.
New Hampshire Blockchain Council President weighs in
Addressing the same issue, Keith Ammon, President of the New Hampshire Blockchain Council and the main sponsor of the legislation, said:
With Governor Ayotte’s signature on HB 639, New Hampshire has once again demonstrated that it intends to lead the nation in blockchain innovation.
Ammon continued:
Entrepreneurs, investors, developers, and innovators across America should know that New Hampshire is open for blockchain business.
Taken together, both bills reveal a single goal. While HB 302 was introduced Bitcoin HB 639 provides the state with legal safeguards for individuals and companies operating in the market.
This comes as New Hampshire is also weighing its plans. Taxable income bonds of up to $100 million are allowed It will be used to finance the purchase of Bitcoin by a borrower affiliated with CleanSpark.
If financing is allowed, this would be another example of how Bitcoin treasury tactics extend beyond traditional debt and equity markets.
Final Summary
- HB 639 opens the door for individuals to hold cryptocurrencies in their own wallets rather than relying on a bank or exchange.
- This new law is largely aligned with the state’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Act, which together work towards a single goal.
