A Texas member of the US House of Representatives has proposed the installation of cryptocurrency ATMs in federal buildings. In a letter to the General Services Administration (GSA), Rep. Lance Gooden suggested that introducing crypto ATMs would serve as an educational resource and align with advancements in financial technology. Gooden urged the GSA to explore guidelines for installing these ATMs in government properties, citing alignment with President Donald Trump’s objectives. Gooden, a Republican and Trump supporter, made the proposal as lawmakers consider legislation to combat fraud through crypto ATMs. The GSA website mentioned the provision of space for ATMs from federal credit unions, raising questions about including digital asset ATMs from private companies like Bitcoin Depot or CoinFlip. Gooden had no investments in cryptocurrency or ATM companies as of his last financial disclosure in 2019. It remains uncertain whether the acting administrator has the authority to expand regulations to include digital asset ATMs. President Trump, with ties to cryptocurrencies through personal holdings and family businesses, has significant exposure to digital asset firms. The proposal for crypto ATMs in federal buildings raises questions about decision-making authority and potential congressional involvement. Trump’s involvement in cryptocurrencies and digital assets, including the TRUMP memecoin, adds complexity to the discussion around the potential installation of crypto ATMs in federal buildings.
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