The Bitcoin Policy Institute (BPI) has released a sweeping policy proposal that could redefine how the United States approaches Bitcoin. In a 21-page document titled the Bitcoin Policy Manifesto, BPI makes the case for the U.S. to take a commanding role in shaping the future of the Bitcoin ecosystem—spanning from economic integration to energy infrastructure.

This new policy framework, authored by BPI’s head of policy Zack Shapiro, outlines a comprehensive roadmap aimed at embedding Bitcoin into America’s financial, legal, and energy systems. The proposal is designed for policymakers and can be digested in under 30 minutes, offering a clear yet powerful vision for Bitcoin’s role in U.S. economic leadership.

Three-Pillar Framework for Bitcoin Integration

The manifesto revolves around a three-pronged strategy:

1. National Economic Integration: Position Bitcoin as a pillar in U.S. fiscal and geopolitical strategy.

2. Legal and Regulatory Clarity: Protect innovation by distinguishing between custodial and non-custodial technologies.

3. Energy Infrastructure Modernization: Leverage Bitcoin mining as a tool for grid stability and renewable energy integration.

This structured approach signals a significant shift in how digital assets, particularly Bitcoin, could be treated within U.S. policy circles.

Strategic Bitcoin Reserve: A Modern-Day Gold Vault

One of the boldest recommendations is the creation of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR)—a digital counterpart to traditional U.S. stockpiles of gold and oil.

BPI argues that Bitcoin’s scarcity, portability, and independence from central authority make it an ideal hedge against inflation and global instability. These traits, the institute claims, are essential for a modern reserve asset.

In addition, the policy suggests that the U.S. could issue new Treasury instruments dubbed “BitBonds”—Bitcoin-linked government bonds. A portion of proceeds from these bonds would go toward purchasing and holding Bitcoin. BPI modeling suggests this mechanism could reduce federal interest expenses while boosting confidence in the dollar’s long-term strength.

Strengthening U.S. Bitcoin Capital Markets

Beyond strategic reserves, the policy outlines several reforms aimed at strengthening the domestic Bitcoin investment landscape:

• Approval of in-kind spot Bitcoin ETFs

• Exemptions for low-value Bitcoin transactions from capital gains taxes

• Finalization of fair-value accounting rules for corporate Bitcoin holdings

These measures would streamline participation in the Bitcoin market and encourage greater institutional adoption across U.S. financial systems.

Protecting Innovation: Legal Clarity for Non-Custodial Technology

Another key concern raised in the document is the need for legal clarity surrounding non-custodial technologies—software tools that allow users to manage Bitcoin without intermediaries.

The report calls for the passage of the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act, which would establish safe harbors for developers of non-custodial tools like Lightning Network routers, privacy-enhancing wallets, and decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols.

The current legal ambiguity has led to the criminal prosecution of developers behind privacy tools. The BPI argues these cases set dangerous precedents and should be dropped to avoid stifling innovation.

Moreover, the document recommends the establishment of a unified federal money transmission license to replace the current patchwork of state-by-state licensing rules. This, along with the introduction of a compliance sandbox for custodial startups, would greatly reduce the regulatory burden on developers and entrepreneurs in the Bitcoin space.

Bitcoin Mining as a National Energy Asset

In perhaps the most novel section of the manifesto, BPI makes the case for Bitcoin mining to be seen as a strategic energy resource.

The report outlines several proposals:

• Recognize mining as a demand-response asset to help balance electrical grids.

• Encourage mining co-location with clean energy and AI data centers to improve energy load distribution.

• Support methane capture via mining at oil and gas sites, reducing harmful emissions.

• Adopt a technology-neutral stance in energy policy, ensuring Bitcoin isn’t unfairly targeted.

By embracing Bitcoin mining, the U.S. could stabilize energy grids, absorb excess renewable energy, and accelerate investments in new transmission infrastructure, the report claims.

Importantly, BPI stresses that Bitcoin mining should receive no preferential treatment or targeted subsidies, but rather be recognized for its potential to deliver tangible benefits across energy markets.

A Call to Action for Policymakers

The Bitcoin Policy Manifesto does not merely provide suggestions; it calls on U.S. lawmakers and regulators to take action.

BPI wants Congress and federal agencies to:

• Acknowledge Bitcoin’s strategic value.

• Modernize outdated legal frameworks.

• Align Bitcoin policy with national security and energy priorities.

By doing so, the U.S. could ensure it remains at the forefront of financial and technological innovation in the digital age.

Why This Matters Now

Bitcoin has evolved far beyond its early days as a niche asset for tech enthusiasts. Today, it’s part of a growing movement toward decentralized financial systems, and countries around the world are beginning to recognize its potential strategic importance.

With global powers like China and Russia developing alternative financial networks, BPI’s policy push arrives at a pivotal moment. The U.S. has a window of opportunity to lead—or risk falling behind.

Final Thoughts

The Bitcoin Policy Manifesto offers more than just a plan for integrating digital assets into existing systems. It challenges America’s leaders to rethink their approach to money, energy, and technological sovereignty.

By positioning Bitcoin as a strategic national asset rather than a regulatory nuisance, the U.S. could not only safeguard its financial future but also foster innovation, strengthen infrastructure, and assert its leadership in a rapidly changing world.

Whether lawmakers will take this bold blueprint seriously remains to be seen—but the conversation is now undeniably underway.