- Senate Agriculture Committee resumes crypto bill markup today after weather delays to vote on oversight and jurisdiction amendments.
- Amendments cover ethics limits, CFTC timing, retail definitions, ATM fraud rules and foreign adversary participation.
- The vote comes amid shutdown risks, but lawmakers say clearer crypto rules are needed to keep firms operating in the USA.
U.S. senators are set to vote today on amendments to a crypto market structure bill in Washington. The vote will take place during a Senate Agriculture Committee markup following weather-related delays earlier this week. Lawmakers scheduled the session to clarify digital asset oversight and define regulatory jurisdiction across federal agencies.
Markup Rescheduled as Attendance
The Senate Agriculture Committee moved the markup from Monday to Thursday to ensure full participation. Severe weather earlier this week disrupted travel plans for several lawmakers. With conditions improved, committee leaders confirmed the session would proceed as scheduled.
Notably, several senators withdrew proposals unrelated to digital assets before the markup. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas and Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois said they would not offer a credit card swipe fee amendment. Supporters said the withdrawal reduced procedural risks tied to advancing the bill.
During the session, lawmakers will debate amendments tied directly to crypto oversight. Each proposal will face discussion and a vote. Afterward, committee members will decide whether to advance the bill to the full Senate.
Ethics, Oversight and Market Access Amendments Filed
Ahead of the vote, senators submitted several targeted amendments. According to Crypto in America, Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado proposed ethics rules limiting crypto holdings for government officials and families. The committee has not confirmed whether it will adopt that proposal.
Meanwhile, Senate Agriculture ranking member Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota filed two amendments. One would delay implementation until the CFTC confirms four commissioners, including minority party members. The other would narrow the “retail participant” definition and clarify the Digital Commodity Retail Advocate’s role.
Additionally, Senator Dick Durbin filed amendments banning crypto issuer bailouts and adding anti-fraud requirements for crypto ATMs. Senators Tommy Tuberville of Alabama and Jerry Moran of Kansas proposed limits on foreign adversary participation in U.S. crypto markets.
Political Outlook and Legislative Pressure Build
The markup occurs as Congress faces a funding deadline. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Democrats will block a funding package before Saturday’s deadline. Polymarket data shows a 76% chance of a government shutdown on January 31.Despite the pressure, the markup is expected to proceed. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said clear crypto rules would help firms operate legally and remain in the United States. She added that bipartisan negotiations remain active as lawmakers address unresolved issues.