Senate Panel Prepares for Crypto Bill Vote
The U.S. Senate Banking Committee plans to review the Digital Asset Market CLARITY Act on Thursday, May 14. The markup could become a major moment for U.S. crypto regulation after months of debate.
The session is expected to start at 10:30 a.m. Crypto supporters see it as a key step toward clearer rules for digital asset markets.
The CLARITY Act aims to replace unclear enforcement actions with a federal rulebook. It would guide crypto exchanges, token issuers, and other market players.
Stablecoin Rewards Remain a Major Issue
A recent compromise from Sens. Thom Tillis and Angela Alsobrooks helped revive momentum. Their deal focuses on stablecoin yield and reward programs.
Banks have warned that interest-like rewards on stablecoins could pull money away from traditional deposits. However, crypto firms argue that rewards can support user activity and innovation.
The compromise would limit stablecoin programs that look like bank interest. At the same time, it could allow activity-based rewards under future regulatory guidance.
Key issues still under discussion include:
- Stablecoin rewards and yield rules
- DeFi oversight
- Ethics language
- SEC and CFTC authority
- Investor protection standards
Crypto Industry Watches the Next Step
The bill still faces a difficult path. Lawmakers must agree on how much power the SEC and CFTC should hold over digital assets. They also need to settle how decentralized finance should fit into the law.
The House passed its version of the CLARITY Act in 2025. However, the Senate version would still need to be reconciled before any final vote.
For crypto companies, the May 14 markup is not the finish line. However, it could show whether Congress can finally move toward lasting crypto market structure rules.
A successful committee vote may boost confidence in the U.S. digital asset industry. Another delay could increase fears that unclear rules will push crypto activity overseas.