📰 Table Of Contents
United States Lawmaker Criticizes OMB’s Approval of Bitcoin Mining Data Collection
United States lawmaker Tom Emmer has criticized the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) decision to approve the Energy Information Administration (EIA) request to collect data on Bitcoin (BTC) mining firms. Emmer expressed his displeasure with recent events, backing Bitcoin and miners’ freedom to protect the network.
Legal Actions Against EIA
The Texas Blockchain Council and Bitcoin miner Riot Platforms have sued EIA over the Bitcoin mining data order, arguing that Bitcoin mining does not pose a threat to public safety.
OMB’s Use of Emergency Powers
Emmer raised concerns about the OMB’s use of emergency powers to attack Bitcoin miners and demanded an explanation, emphasizing that Bitcoin mining is not a threat to public safety.
OMB’s Approval of EIA’s Request
The OMB approved the EIA’s request to subject Bitcoin miners to a “new, mandatory information collection regime” on Jan 24, prompting criticism from Emmer and the cryptocurrency community.
Support for Bitcoin Miners
Emmer made a case for Bitcoin miners, emphasizing their role in securing the network and portraying American values through their open and permissionless model on which the blockchain operates.
EIA’s Neutrality Questioned
The EIA’s claim of being a politically neutral agency was questioned, as the move seemed to enforce the Biden Administration’s policy against energy consumption, including previous attempts to introduce a power tax for Bitcoin miners.
Concerns About Survey Scope
Emmer raised concerns about the scope of the survey, which covered 82 crypto mining firms on electricity usage, sources, chip types, and more, requesting explanations for the need for such detailed information.
Demand for Expansion and Clarification
Emmer demanded an expansion on the reasons for the OMB’s approval and the procedure used by EIA, stressing the need for transparency and clarifications on the criteria and implications of non-compliance with the data collection request.
Ian is a cryptocurrency enthusiast blending humor with professionalism. With an engineering background and a storyteller's heart, he simplifies the blockchain world with sharp analysis and a touch of wit. At Cryptowire, he brings his unique perspective to make digital financial innovation accessible to all.
