- New York explores blockchain to secure election records, with Assembly Bill A7716 initiating a statewide study on voter data protection.
- Assembly Bill A7716 mandates a report on blockchain’s role in elections, involving multiple agencies and experts in cybersecurity and voter fraud.
- National crypto policy growth supports New York’s A7716, potentially establishing the state as a leader in blockchain-driven election integrity.
New York might look to blockchain technology to safeguard election records in the not-too-distant future. Assemblyman Clyde Vanel (D-33) has introduced Assembly Bill A7716. The legislation calls for a statewide study on the use of blockchain for the protection of voter information and election results. It directs the New York State Board of Elections to oversee the initiative. The legislation requires a detailed report within 12 months, offering recommendations based on expert input and other states’ experiences.
The bill outlines a multi-agency collaboration. The Board of Elections must work with the Office of Information Technology Services. Additionally, experts in blockchain, cybersecurity, voter fraud, and election systems must be involved. The bill defines blockchain as decentralized, cryptographically secure, immutable, and transparent. This technology, according to the bill, can provide an “uncensored truth” in election records.
Long Road to Legislative Success
Vanel has pursued similar legislation since 2017. However, none of those earlier proposals reached the governor’s desk. This year’s bill arrives during rising interest in blockchain’s public sector role. Consequently, the current legislative atmosphere may increase the bill’s chances of success. The proposal remains under committee review, awaiting further discussion or amendments.
Besides focusing on elections, states are considering blockchain for broader uses. Utah recently passed HB230, a law supporting blockchain and crypto activities. The law protects the use of digital wallets and node operations. However, it removed language supporting direct Bitcoin investment by the state. Still, it affirms the right to use blockchain freely for commerce and innovation.
Bitcoin Reserve Bills Gain Traction Nationwide
Moreover, national momentum for crypto-friendly policy continues to grow. President Trump’s March executive order introduced a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Since then, 47 Bitcoin reserve bills have emerged across 26 states. According to Bitcoin Law data, 41 of these bills remain active. These initiatives reflect increasing state-level support for blockchain infrastructure.
Hence, New York’s A7716 may benefit from this broader policy shift. If enacted, the bill could position the state as a leader in election integrity. Blockchain’s tamper-proof design offers real potential to reinforce voter trust. However, actual implementation depends on future legislative action and findings from the mandated study.
