Logll Tech News — Several counties in the U.S. state of Arkansas are taking swift action to pass emergency legislation concerning crypto mining regulations and noise control before a new state law comes into effect on August 1.
- This move comes in response to the implementation of guidelines that will bring crypto mining facilities under the same regulations as data centers, providing protection to miners and ensuring they are not subjected to discriminatory regulations and taxes. The speedy passing of the new legislation has raised concerns among residents, who had limited time to discuss its implications.
Crypto Miners and the Rush for Regulation
The new state law, which proposes to regulate crypto mining operations akin to data centers, was introduced by State Rep. Rick McClure. Surprisingly, there were no opposing voices during discussions in committees or on the legislative floors. The companies engaged in crypto mining in Arkansas include Green Digital, GMI Computing, United BitEngine, and Cryptic Farms. However, residents have expressed their grievances over the excessive noise emanating from these facilities, leading local authorities to address the issue urgently.
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Complaints of Excessive Noise and Enactment of Rules
Residents, though not opposed to the concept of crypto mining, are troubled by the constant noise disrupting their daily lives. Justice of the Peace, Kris Kendrick, expressed concerns about the lack of consideration for neighbors and the incessant noise disturbing residents in Faulkner County’s Quorum Court during a meeting in July. Consequently, local authorities have been prompted to enforce regulations to tackle the problem.
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The Association of Arkansas Counties’ Solution
In response to the new state law, the Association of Arkansas Counties devised a model ordinance that counties can adopt before the legislation takes effect. As a result, more than a dozen counties have already implemented noise ordinances specifically targeting data centers, including those involved in crypto mining operations.
Resident Testimonies Shed Light on the Issue
Residents affected by the noise pollution caused by crypto mining facilities have come forward to share their experiences. Maree Coats, another Justice of the Peace, emphasized that the problem extended beyond mere inconvenience, stating that the relentless noise disrupted the peace and tranquility of residents, even inside their homes.
Understanding the New Legislation
Although the new legislation does not completely prohibit county regulations, it does safeguard crypto mining facilities from discriminatory practices. Local governments are prohibited from imposing restrictions on decibel levels beyond the limits set for sound pollution in general. Furthermore, counties are forbidden from rezoning areas with the intent of discriminating against digital mining operations.
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Conclusion
With the implementation of the new state law on the horizon, Arkansas counties are taking proactive measures to control noise and regulate activities related to crypto mining. The legislation offers protection to crypto miners and ensures they are treated fairly, free from discriminatory practices. As residents’ voices have been heard, local authorities are striving to strike a balance between the benefits of crypto mining and preserving the peace and well-being of their communities.
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The new state law aims to apply data center regulations to crypto mining facilities, ensuring fair treatment and protection from discriminatory regulations and taxes.
Some of the crypto mining companies in Arkansas include Green Digital, GMI Computing, United BitEngine, and Cryptic Farms.
Complaints from residents about excessive noise generated by crypto mining facilities compelled local authorities to address the issue promptly.
While the new legislation does not completely prohibit county regulations, it restricts discriminatory practices against crypto mining facilities.
The Association of Arkansas Counties has developed a model ordinance that counties can adopt to regulate noise and other activities related to crypto mining.
Residents are primarily concerned about the constant noise disruptions caused by crypto mining facilities, affecting their daily lives and peace of mind.