Treasury Secretary Calls for Crypto Regulation Bill Passage This Spring

Bessent says legislation would provide "great comfort to the market" amid volatility.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged Congress to pass a bill this spring that would create federal rules for digital assets, known as the Clarity Act. Bessent said the legislation would give "great comfort to the market" during a time of significant crypto market volatility, but noted that cryptocurrency firms have tried to block the bill. He warned that the bipartisan support for the bill may collapse if Democrats take control of the House of Representatives in the upcoming November elections.

Why it matters

The lack of clear federal regulations around cryptocurrencies has created uncertainty in the market and made it difficult for both investors and firms operating in the crypto space. Passing the Clarity Act would provide much-needed clarity and stability, but faces opposition from some crypto industry players.

The details

The Clarity Act would establish federal rules and oversight for the cryptocurrency industry, which has operated in a regulatory gray area. Bessent said the legislation would give the market "great comfort" during a period of high volatility. However, he acknowledged that cryptocurrency firms have tried to block the bill, even as there is bipartisan support to get it passed before the November elections. Bessent warned that this bipartisan coalition may collapse if Democrats gain control of the House, potentially jeopardizing the bill's chances.

  • The Clarity Act is expected to be considered by Congress this spring.
  • The November 2026 midterm elections could impact the bipartisan support for the crypto regulation bill.

The players

Scott Bessent

The current U.S. Treasury Secretary, who is advocating for Congress to pass the Clarity Act to regulate the cryptocurrency industry.

Donald Trump

The President who would need to sign the Clarity Act into law if it is passed by Congress.

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What they’re saying

“It's important for Congress to pass a bill to create federal rules for digital assets and get it onto President Donald Trump's desk to sign into law this spring.”

— Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary (CNBC)

“The Clarity Act would give great comfort to the market at a time of great volatility.”

— Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary (CNBC)

What’s next

The Clarity Act must pass Congress and be signed into law by President Trump before it can take effect.

The takeaway

The lack of clear federal regulations around cryptocurrencies has created uncertainty in the market, and passing the Clarity Act could provide much-needed stability. However, the bill faces opposition from some crypto industry players, and its fate may hinge on the results of the upcoming November elections.