Arkansas Counties Hastily Implement Noise Regulations for Crypto Miners

Several counties in Arkansas are racing against time to pass emergency legislation that would enable them to regulate noise and other activities associated with cryptocurrency mining. This decision comes ahead of a state law that will take effect on August 1, which brings crypto mining facilities under the same regulations applied to data centers. The aim is to create guidelines for miners and protect them from discriminatory regulations and taxes. However, residents of Arkansas barely had time to discuss the new legislation, as it was proposed, reviewed by committees, and passed by legislators within a mere week, from March 30 to April 7.

A Quick Transition

State Representative Rick McClure, the author of the bill, stated that “no one spoke against this bill in committees, or on the legislative floors.” Major crypto mining companies in Arkansas, such as Green Digital, GMI Computing, United BitEngine, and Cryptic Farms, are set to be impacted by the new law. As a response to growing concerns about excessive noise pollution caused by mining activities, local authorities in the state have been adopting stricter rules. These regulations aim to address complaints of noise disturbances occurring 24 hours a day.

The Battle Over Noise

During a meeting in July, Kris Kendrick, a justice of the peace on Faulkner County’s Quorum Court, expressed his concerns, stating, “I don’t have any issues with mining crypto, but just the noise level, the lack of care for our neighbors.” In response to the passing of the bill, the Association of Arkansas Counties has developed a model ordinance that counties can adopt and implement before the law takes effect. As of June, over a dozen counties have reportedly passed noise ordinances specifically targeting data centers.

Justice of the Peace Maree Coats also emphasized the impact of the noise on residents, stating, “These people can hear this sound 24/7 from their bedrooms. It’s not just about not being able to enjoy a glass of tea on the front porch or the back porch.”

Preserving Fairness

Although the new legislation does not explicitly prevent county regulations, it does prohibit local governments from discriminating against crypto mining facilities based on noise levels. The law also forbids counties from rezoning areas with the intent or effect of discriminating against digital mining operations. However, local governments are still permitted to enforce decibel level restrictions set for general sound pollution.

Crypto mining has become a booming industry in many states across the United States, leading to concerns about its environmental impact, excessive energy consumption, and noise pollution. As more states navigate the intersection of cryptocurrency and local regulations, it is crucial to strike a balance that preserves the rights and well-being of both the mining industry and the affected communities.

Editor’s Notes

In an era of rapid cryptocurrency growth, it is essential to ensure that the industry is operating in harmony with local regulations and the interests of affected communities. Noise regulations for crypto miners are an important step in finding a balance between the needs of the mining industry and the quality of life for residents. By implementing noise regulations, Arkansas counties are demonstrating their commitment to protecting their citizens’ well-being while still supporting the growth of the cryptocurrency sector. To stay updated on the latest news and trends in the world of cryptocurrencies, visit Uber Crypto News.