Louisiana has just become a pioneer state in the US by allowing people to use Bitcoin to pay for public services, marking a new step in the application of blockchain technology.
On September 17, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries received the first fine paid in Bitcoin via the Lightning Network, opening an era of more modern and convenient payments for citizens.
According to Louisiana Secretary of Finance John Fleming, people can now use Bitcoin, Lightning Network and stablecoin USDC to pay for public services. This is the state's effort to modernize the payment system, giving people flexibility in using digital assets.
The state of Louisiana has partnered with Bead Pay and other integration partners to build a secure and efficient payment system. While residents can pay with Bitcoin, the state will automatically convert it to USD, minimizing the risk of Bitcoin price volatility and ensuring the stability of the public budget.
Republican Representative Mark Wright, who played a key Vai in promoting Bitcoin acceptance in Louisiana, expressed optimism about the move. He established a digital asset working group in 2022, laying the groundwork for Bitcoin to be recognized as a legal form of payment in the state.
Previously, in 2021, Mr. Wright also led a resolution to recognize the contribution of Satoshi Nakamoto, the founder of Bitcoin, to global economic security.
In addition to accepting Bitcoin, Louisiana has also taken a clear stance on central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). In June 2023, state law was amended to prohibit participation in CBDC experiments and uses, while also establishing a legal framework for mining and operating Bitcoin network nodes.
