Indiana lawmakers pass crypto rights bill banning discriminatory taxes

CoinTelegraph

by Zoltan Vardai

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Indiana lawmakers have passed House Bill 1042 (HB1042), a landmark legislation that aims to protect cryptocurrency users and promote digital asset adoption. The bill, which now awaits Governor Mike Braun's signature, seeks to ban discriminatory taxes on cryptocurrencies while expanding legal safeguards for investors. It also mandates that certain state retirement and savings plans offer self-directed brokerage options with at least one cryptocurrency investment choice. This move positions Indiana as a forward-thinking state in the growing crypto economy. The bill, approved by 59 lawmakers in favor and 33 against, specifically addresses Bitcoin (BTC) and other cryptocurrencies. It prohibits states from imposing taxes that target digital assets disproportionately, ensuring crypto investors are not burdened with unfair financial obligations. Additionally, it requires the Indiana Retirement System and other state-run plans to provide a self-directed brokerage window, allowing participants to allocate portions of their retirement savings to crypto investments. This legislation marks a significant step toward integrating cryptocurrencies into mainstream finance. By offering retirement account options for digital assets, Indiana is addressing the growing demand for financial flexibility among investors. The bill also emphasizes legal protections, ensuring that cryptocurrency users are not subject to discriminatory regulations or excessive taxation. This approach aligns with broader trends across the U.S., where states are increasingly recognizing the importance of fostering a crypto-friendly environment. For readers interested in crypto, this development highlights the potential for greater regulatory clarity and accessibility in the digital asset space. By banning discriminatory taxes and expanding investment opportunities, Indiana is paving the way for more widespread adoption of cryptocurrencies in financial planning. This bill not only benefits individual investors but also sets a precedent for other states to follow, signaling a shift toward more inclusive and forward-looking crypto policies.

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Originally published on CoinTelegraph on 2/26/2026