A coalition of 82 Catholic leaders and organizations has urged the U.S. Senate to oppose the Clarity Act, a key crypto market structure bill, warning that its provisions could enable human trafficking and illicit finance. In a letter to Senate leaders, the group specifically criticized the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act (BRCA), which would exempt decentralized software developers from criminal prosecution. The Catholics argue that such protections could shield tools used for money laundering and trafficking, contradicting Christian values of justice and protection of the vulnerable. The Clarity Act faces opposition from Wall Street, Native American tribes, and Democrats, with deadlines looming. The Trump DOJ has recently prosecuted developers for creating privacy tools used in criminal activities. The letter, organized by the Alliance to End Human Trafficking, adds religious opposition to the debate.

Key facts

• 82 Catholic leaders opposed the Clarity Act due to human trafficking concerns.
• BRCA provision would exempt decentralized developers from criminal prosecution.
• Catholics warn the bill could enable money laundering and illicit finance.
• Trump DOJ has prosecuted developers for privacy tools used in crime.
• Clarity Act faces opposition from Wall Street, tribes, and Democrats.
• Passage deadline is next month; failure may delay law until after midterms.