U.S. Bitcoin Reserve Bill Proposes 20-Year Lockup

The American Reserve Modernization Act of 2026 (ARMA), introduced by Rep. Nick Begich and co-lead Rep. Jared Golden, proposes a federally managed Strategic Bitcoin Reserve with a 20-year minimum holding period. The bipartisan bill would require quarterly proof-of-reserve reports, third-party audits, and congressional oversight. It also establishes a separate Digital Asset Stockpile for non-Bitcoin assets. The legislation builds on a March 2025 executive order that created a Bitcoin reserve framework but can be reversed by future administrations. ARMA aims to codify the reserve in statute, making liquidation difficult. Rep. Begich envisions the U.S. holding up to 1 million Bitcoin (5% of total supply), worth over $100 billion at current valuations. The bill directs a study into budget-neutral acquisition methods, such as asset reallocations and criminal forfeiture proceeds. Patrick Witt from the President's Council of Advisors for Digital Assets indicated alignment with the reserve concept. The 20-year lockup signals to sovereign wealth funds and central banks that the U.S. views Bitcoin as a long-term reserve asset akin to gold. ARMA faces an uncertain path through Congress, needing committee action, House and Senate approval, and reconciliation with broader crypto regulation.