Rollout and Payment Process
Ohio has finalized its plan to accept cryptocurrency payments for state fees, marking a significant step in integrating digital assets into public finance. The process began in April 2025 when Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose and Treasurer Robert Sprague called on the State Board of Deposit to authorize such payments. The board gave its unanimous approval in principle in May, and the final hurdle was cleared on September 24, 2025, when the board unanimously approved a specific vendor to process the transactions.
This vendor will be responsible for converting cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin into U.S. dollars for the state, shielding the state from market volatility. The move is designed to meet growing demand and modernize state services. As Secretary LaRose noted, with hundreds of thousands of transactions processed by his office annually, this initiative positions Ohio “at the forefront of the emerging digital economy”.
Legislation and Expected Impact
This payment initiative is part of a broader legislative push to make Ohio a hub for digital asset innovation. A key component is the Ohio Blockchain Basics Act (House Bill 116), which passed the House in June 2025. This bill aims to prohibit local governments from restricting the use of digital assets and would exempt crypto transactions under $200 from state capital gains taxes, simplifying small everyday payments.
Furthermore, LaRose supports House Bill 18, which proposes creating an Ohio Strategic Crypto Reserve. This fund would be allocated to digital assets as part of the state’s investment strategy, further cementing its commitment to the crypto ecosystem.
The immediate effect is that taxpayers and businesses gain a modern payment option for state fees. For the state, it introduces new operational considerations for managing and converting volatile assets. The industry views these developments positively; Dennis Porter, CEO of the Satoshi Action Fund, called the legislation “a clear signal” that Ohio is championing innovation. The long-term success and potential for Ohio to become a model for other states will depend on the effective implementation of the payment system and the passage of the accompanying legislation.
