South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster signed Senate Bill 163 into law on Tuesday, establishing protections for digital asset use, self-custody, and mining. The bill explicitly bans the state from using or testing central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). It ensures individuals and businesses cannot be prohibited from accepting digital assets for goods/services or using self-hosted wallets. Bitcoin miners in industrial zones are protected, subject to noise and grid constraints. The bill also exempts miners, node operators, and blockchain developers from money transmitter licensing. The legislation passed the Senate in April 2025 and the House with a 110-1 vote in May 2025. Separately, House Bill 4256, proposing up to 10% of public funds be allocated to Bitcoin, was introduced but has not advanced.

Key facts

• Senate Bill 163 signed by Governor Henry McMaster on Tuesday.
• Bans South Carolina from using or testing CBDCs.
• Protects right to use, custody, and mine digital assets.
• Miner protections in industrial zones with noise/grid limits.
• No money transmitter license required for miners, nodes, or developers.

KeyAudit data perspective