The CLARITY Act picked up a potentially important boost as the National Sheriffs' Association shifted from opposing the bill to neutral, removing a hurdle for Senate Democrats. But a canceled House calendar is now squeezing the timeline the crypto market structure bill needs to become law this year.
The CLARITY Act picked up a potentially important ally days before its first Senate floor test, but a fresh scheduling problem is complicating its path to passage this year. The bill faces a procedural vote on September 15, and the outcome now hinges on both chambers' shrinking calendars.
NSA drops its opposition
The National Sheriffs' Association had opposed the landmark crypto market structure bill, arguing it could make it harder for authorities to fight illicit finance involving digital assets. In a filing to the Senate, the agency said it believes the appropriate course is to step back and let the legislative process continue given the bill's complexity and the issues still being negotiated.
That shift matters because law enforcement concerns had become a major sticking point for some Senate Democrats whose votes could decide whether the bill advances. The NSA's move to neutral does not mean it now supports the legislation. However, it removes a source of pressure on senators weighing whether to back the motion to advance it, clearing one more obstacle to the Democratic support the bill needs on the floor.
The vote ahead
Senate Majority Leader John Thune filed a cloture vote motion to proceed with H.R. 3633 in early August, setting up a vote once the chamber returns from recess. The motion needs 60 senators and would not pass the CLARITY Act itself — it would only limit debate and move the bill toward formal Senate consideration.
Republicans hold 53 seats, so Democratic or independent support is necessary if the Republican conference votes together.
A tighter House calendar
House Republican leaders canceled voting sessions during the weeks of September 21 and 28, cutting eight legislative days from the calendar. The House is now scheduled to leave Washington on September 17, just two days after the Senate's first procedural vote, narrowing the window for both chambers to act on the bill this year.
Source: CryptoPotato
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