Louisiana becomes first US state to accept crypto payments for public services

Louisiana has become the first U.S. state to allow cryptocurrency payments for certain state services. 

Residents now have the option to pay using Bitcoin, Bitcoin Lightning Network, and USD Coin, marking a new chapter in how governments can embrace digital currencies.

The first crypto payment was made on September 17 to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, using Bitcoin’s Lightning Network. 

This initiative was developed in collaboration with Bead Pay and local partners to provide citizens with a secure and efficient payment option while reducing fraud risks.

State Treasurer John Fleming expressed the importance of this shift, noting that it allows the state to adapt to the evolving digital age. 

“Our aim is to offer greater flexibility to our citizens by embracing cutting-edge technology,” he said. “Cryptocurrency payments represent a significant step toward modernizing government transactions.”

To avoid the volatility associated with cryptocurrencies, payments made in crypto will be converted to U.S. dollars, ensuring financial stability for the state.

 This conversion strategy allows Louisiana to harness the benefits of digital currencies without exposing its finances to market fluctuations.

This effort is part of a broader initiative led by Republican State Representative Mark Wright, who established a digital assets working group in 2022. 

Wright’s advocacy for expanding payment options in the state has paved the way for this crypto adoption. Additionally, in 2021, Wright sponsored a resolution to honour Bitcoin’s mysterious creator, Satoshi Nakamoto.

While Louisiana has welcomed the use of popular digital currencies, it has simultaneously amended its laws to block the use of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). This dual approach reflects the state’s desire to embrace innovation while protecting financial independence.