Emphasizing the importance and power of distributed ledger technologies (DLT) to support democratic governance, human rights, internet freedom, and transparency.
This House resolution is a non-binding-policy statement that urges U.S. government agencies to actively explore and support the development and use of distributed ledger technologies (DLT), including blockchains, to strengthen democratic governance, human rights, internet freedom, transparency, sustainability, and humanitarian aid delivery. It emphasizes DLT’s potential to improve information integrity, reduce censorship, and bolster government accountability while calling for collaboration with technologists, civil society, and international partners. The resolution also advocates for the United States to lead in creating ethical regulatory frameworks that encourage beneficial uses of DLT and to promote ongoing research, innovation, and investment in these technologies. Although it does not authorize funding or impose new legal requirements, it signals policy priorities and could shape future agency activities and international engagement. In short, the measure positions DLT as a strategic tool for democracy and rights protection and urges U.S. agencies to pursue responsible, practical applications and policy directions that advance transparency, resilience, and human rights protections.
Key Points
- 1Urges U.S. government agencies (State, USAID, DFC, and others) to explore and support the development and application of DLT to strengthen democratic governance, human rights, transparency, sustainability, and humanitarian aid delivery.
- 2Encourages using DLT to combat censorship and promote free flow of information as foundational to democracy and rights, including enabling access to restricted content and safeguarding freedom of speech.
- 3Calls for deeper collaboration with technology experts, civil society, and international partners to understand opportunities and practical applications of DLT, ensuring responsible and effective use.
- 4Affirms U.S. leadership in developing regulatory and policy frameworks that promote ethical, sustainable, and accessible use of DLT while addressing risks of misuse by malign actors.
- 5Promotes further research, innovation, and investment in DLT that can benefit the public, strengthen democratic institutions, and protect the integrity of democratic processes.