Arkansas Proposes 30-Mile Mining Ban Near Military Bases

Lawmakers in Arkansas have introduced a bill aiming to prohibit cryptocurrency mining within a 30-mile radius of key military sites. They claim this distance will prevent mining facilities from affecting both infrastructure and the security of the U.S. Air Force. Officials clarify that, if approved, the new regulation would apply to existing operations as well as future projects.

Senators argue that restricting such operations could reduce noise levels that might disrupt Little Rock Air Force Base. Additionally, local experts estimate that annual power usage by these mining farms can exceed 500 million kWh. Supporters of the proposal believe these restrictions will protect nearby communities from grid overloads.

Besides addressing power constraints, the bill’s main goal is to oversee private-sector involvement near military infrastructure. According to regional reports, at least four significant mining setups have been recorded in Lonoke County alone, each potentially drawing up to 20 MW of electricity. Observers note this legislative move is designed to enhance the state’s defense readiness.