In a significant move to redefine the United States’ approach to digital finance, Congressman Nick Begich (AK-AL) and Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) have introduced the American Reserve Modernization Act of 2026 (ARMA). This bipartisan legislation aims to create a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and modernize the federal management of digital reserve assets. The initiative has garnered the support of several original co-sponsors, including Representatives Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (GA-01), Ben Cline (VA-06), and others, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of the importance of digital currencies.
Begich emphasized that the new legislation positions the U.S. to maintain a commanding presence in the digital age while prioritizing taxpayer interests and financial sovereignty. He contended that private property rights must extend into the digital realm as the global economy rapidly evolves. By diversifying the nation’s core reserves, the bill aims to uphold individual liberty and encourage innovation systems.
Golden highlighted the urgency of establishing coherent federal policy around bitcoin, pointing out that the U.S. currently ranks as one of the largest holders of bitcoin globally, yet lacks a strategic legal framework for its management. The ARMA seeks to create a stable reserve, mitigating the unpredictability surrounding previous administrations’ handling of bitcoin assets.
Congressman Buddy Carter underscored the need for strategic investments in the changing financial landscape, noting that amassing bitcoin would provide a cushion against economic uncertainties and bolster U.S. competitiveness internationally. Congressman Matt Van Epps echoed these sentiments, asserting that consolidating the government’s bitcoin holdings would pave the way for prosperity while ensuring transactions are carried out transparently and exclusively for debt reduction.
Concerns about U.S. competitiveness in the face of aggressive moves by other countries, such as China, were echoed by Congressman Barry Moore. He articulated that the ARMA is essential for the U.S. to assert its dominance in the financial sector, particularly in digital assets. Congressman Burgess Owens added that the legislation ensures that the U.S. can address the reality of digital finance strategically rather than reactively.
The proposed act aims to establish a secure Strategic Bitcoin Reserve within the U.S. Department of the Treasury, alongside a separate Digital Asset Stockpile for other federal digital assets. By consolidating the management of these assets, the legislation seeks to provide secure stewardship, transparency, and oversight of taxpayer-owned assets acquired through legal measures.
To enforce robust transparency, the bill mandates regular public reports and independent audits. Additionally, it stipulates that bitcoin held in the reserve must be maintained for a minimum of 20 years, thereby reinforcing the strategic nature of the reserve.
Importantly, the legislation affirms the rights of individuals to own and manage their digital assets without interference from the federal government. It also mandates a study to explore budget-neutral strategies for expanding digital reserves without raising taxes or increasing national debt.
The introduction of the American Reserve Modernization Act signifies a committed effort to modernize federal digital asset policy, ensuring the United States not only adapts to the growing importance of cryptocurrencies but also leads in the future of finance.
