Pay Ohio taxes and fees with bitcoin? These state officials hope so

Andrew Burchwell, Executive Director of the Ohio Blockchain Association, (L) | Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose (C) | Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague (R)

Ohio could soon become a leader in cryptocurrency adoption among states, with officials pushing to allow digital asset payments, such as bitcoin, for state services.

Secretary of State Frank LaRose and Treasurer of State Robert Sprague announced a joint proposal yesterday at the Ohio Statehouse, urging the State Board of Deposit to authorize the use of cryptocurrencies for paying state fees and services. They were joined by Andrew Burchwell of the Ohio Blockchain Association who has been the state’s leading advocate for cryptocurrency adoption.

Why it matters

If approved, Ohio agencies could accept cryptocurrency through a designated third-party payment processor, modernizing financial transactions and positioning the state at the forefront of digital finance innovation.

"The United States is becoming a global leader in the use of cryptocurrency and digital asset technology, and Ohio should be at the forefront," said LaRose.

Treasurer Sprague emphasized the need to "keep up with current practices" while ensuring compliance with state law.

A previous 2019 attempt to allow cryptocurrency tax payments was suspended after the Attorney General ruled it bypassed necessary approval from the State Board of Deposit. At the time, Ohio was the first state in America, and one of the first governments in the world to accept bitcoin for tax payments.

"I am grateful for the leadership of Treasurer Sprague and Secretary LaRose on this issue and we will continue to work to ensure Ohio remains a leader in Bitcoin and digital asset adoption,” said Burchwell.

What’s next

The State Board of Deposit, which includes the Treasurer, Auditor of State, and State Attorney General, must approve the plan. If approved, Ohio could begin accepting cryptocurrency payments for state services and taxes.