Rep. Jared Polis launches bipartisan Congressional Blockchain Caucus

Wednesday September 28, 2016 0 comments Tags: Rep. Jared Polis, cryptocurrency, blockchain

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Congressman Jared Polis (D-Colo.) announced the formation of a new bipartisan Congressional Blockchain Caucus dedicated to the advancement of sound public policy toward blockchain-based technologies and digital currencies.

“The blockchain has boundless potential," Polis said. "From cryptocurrencies to supply chains to banking to property titling, blockchain-based solutions have the ability to decentralize cybersecurity and revolutionize many industries.

“It's vital for Americans, businesses, and members of Congress to learn about blockchain so the U.S. can continue to secure its stance as the global leader of ingenuity.

"The Blockchain Caucus will focus on raising awareness, advancing ideas that foster growth, and safeguarding consumers. I'm excited to work alongside Rep. Mulvaney, and I look forward to all that we'll accomplish," Polis added. 

A blockchain is a public ledger that is the main technological innovation powering cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.

By using math and cryptography, blockchain supplies an open decentralized database of every transaction involving value. This creates a record of authenticity that is verifiable by the entire user community.

Analysts and experts predict that blockchain could potentially transform 21^st century transactions involving money, goods, property, and much more.

Polis said the Congressional Blockchain Caucus will seek to educate, engage, and provide research to help policymakers implement smart regulatory approaches to the issues raised by blockchain-based technologies and networks.

Polis launched the bipartisan caucus alongside Rep. Mick Mulvaney (R-S.C.). 

Polis has been at the forefront of educating lawmakers about blockchain and digital currencies. In 2014, he hosted a Bitcoin Demo Day at the U.S. Capitol to give lawmakers a chance to ask questions to industry experts and address concerns about the emerging technology of online currency.

Polis, the founder of several startups and tech companies, including ProFlowers.com and Techstars, has been a leader on open source technology since joining Congress in 2009. He’s the co-chair of the Congressional Innovation and Entrepreneurship Caucus, which promotes legislation to help startups and small businesses grow, and co-chair of the Open Source Technology Caucus.