The United States has delayed progress on its long-awaited crypto market structure legislation, pushing key congressional action into early 2026. Lawmakers said negotiations are ongoing, but the Senate Banking Committee will not advance the bill this year.
The legislation is intended to establish a clear federal framework for digital asset markets, including rules for crypto exchanges, brokers, and token issuers. It would also define how regulatory authority is divided between the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
Cointelegraph reports that Senate Banking Committee Chair Tim Scott confirmed that the committee will not hold a markup in 2025, despite earlier expectations that the bill could advance sooner. Lawmakers cited unresolved policy disagreements and limited legislative calendar time as key reasons for the delay.
Regulatory uncertainty continues
The postponement means crypto firms operating in the US will continue to face regulatory uncertainty, relying largely on enforcement actions and agency guidance rather than clear statutory rules. Industry participants have repeatedly warned that this environment discourages investment and pushes innovation offshore.
The delay also comes as digital asset regulation becomes a growing political issue ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Changes in congressional priorities or leadership could further affect the bill’s final shape and timeline.
For Europe, the US slowdown contrasts with the rollout of the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation, which is already coming into force. Analysts say the divergence may give Europe a temporary advantage in regulatory clarity, even as global firms continue to navigate fragmented rules across major markets.