Senator Ted Cruz, a member of the Republican Party representing the state of Texas, proposed a legislation that seeks to ban direct to consumer CBDC, media reports said.
The purpose of the legislation that Cruz proposes is to ensure that any regulations regarding digital currency in the US should prioritize protection of users’ financial privacy, maintaining the dominance of the US dollar, and fostering innovation.
According to a press release by Cruz, his supporters believe that if CBDCs are authorized to transgress these fundamental norms, the Federal Reserve may transform into a financial company, obtain sensitive customer data, and permanently track order books.
The proposed bill is expected to face opposition from Democrats, who have been pushing for a CBDC for some time. According to reports, the Biden administration has been exploring creating a digital dollar, providing benefits such as faster and cheaper transactions and greater financial inclusion.
Proponents of CBDCs argue that they could offer a range of benefits to consumers, businesses, and governments. For example, a digital currency could reduce the cost of transactions and make cross-border payments more straightforward and faster. CBDCs could also provide governments a more efficient way to distribute stimulus payments and other financial assistance.
However, opponents of CBDCs are concerned about the potential risks to financial privacy and individual liberty. Some have warned that a digital currency could be used to monitor individuals’ financial transactions and track their movements. Others worry that a CBDC could undermine the role of traditional banks and destabilize the financial system.
As the debate over CBDCs continues, it remains to be seen how much support Cruz’s bill will receive from other lawmakers. However, the introduction of this legislation highlights the growing concern among some politicians about the potential risks and benefits of a digital currency. With the Federal Reserve already exploring the possibility of a CBDC, it is clear that this issue will remain a hot topic in the months and years ahead.
