New York’s lawmakers have passed a bill that would severely restrict cryptocurrency mining in the state, with the goal of reducing emissions. Specifically, the bill targets proof-of-work miners that use carbon-based fuels. Proof-of-work is a mechanism used by, for example, Bitcoin, to ensure the integrity of the blockchain and to slow coin creation for efficiency purposes. It requires large amounts of computing power and thus electricity–much of which comes from fossil fuels. The mass-consumption of fossil fuels by crypto mining rigs has been the target of environmentalists over the years.
The bill provides that unless a proof-of-work mining company uses 100% renewable energy, it would not be allowed to expand or renew permits, and new entrants into the industry would not be allowed to come online. These restrictions would last for two years. The bill is set to be presented to Governor Hochul for her signature.