Georgia state senator proposes allowing gold and silver as legal tender

The Transactional Gold and Silver Act would let residents use precious metals for daily payments through a debit card-like system.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:23pm

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State Senator Randy Harbin has introduced a bill in Georgia that would allow residents to voluntarily use gold and silver for daily payments through a system similar to a debit card. The bill, called the Transactional Gold and Silver Act, would also remove state tax on gold and silver and is based on the U.S. Constitution's provision allowing states to recognize precious metals as legal tender.

Why it matters

This legislation is part of a growing movement in some states to restore gold and silver as alternatives to the U.S. dollar, with Florida and Arkansas having passed similar laws in recent years. Proponents argue this would provide a safeguard against inflation and the decline of purchasing power, while critics say it could undermine the stability of the national currency.

The details

Under Harbin's bill, Georgians could convert some of their money into gold or silver, store it securely in a state-approved depository, and then spend it electronically at businesses, similar to using a bank card. Participation would be optional and the U.S. dollar would remain the primary currency. The bill is based on the U.S. Constitution's Article I, Section 10, which allows states to recognize gold and silver as legal tender.

  • In May 2025, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a law officially recognizing gold and silver as legal tender.
  • In April 2025, Arkansas eliminated capital gains taxes on gold and silver and allowed their use in commerce.

The players

Randy Harbin

A Republican state senator in Georgia who introduced the Transactional Gold and Silver Act.

Ron DeSantis

The governor of Florida who signed a law in 2025 recognizing gold and silver as legal tender.

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What they’re saying

“This is not a partisan issue; it's a common-sense safeguard against inflation, debt, and the decline of purchasing power. Our state has the opportunity — and the obligation — to follow suit.”

— Randy Harbin, State Senator (Atlanta News First)

“Florida's new law is the most comprehensive to date. Starting July 1, 2026, gold and silver coins and bullion that meet purity standards will be legally accepted for transactions and protected from state taxation. The law also enables electronic gold payments, making gold practical in daily life.”

— Randy Harbin, State Senator (Atlanta News First)

What’s next

The Georgia state legislature will consider Harbin's Transactional Gold and Silver Act in the upcoming legislative session.

The takeaway

This legislation reflects a growing movement in some states to provide alternatives to the U.S. dollar by recognizing gold and silver as legal tender, which proponents say could help protect against inflation and economic instability. However, critics argue it could undermine the stability of the national currency.