McMaster Signs Pro-Crypto, Anti-CBDC Bill Into South Carolina Law

South Carolina has become the latest US state to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrency activities. Governor Henry McMaster signed S. 163 into law on Tuesday, which includes provisions that prevent individuals and businesses from being barred from accepting digital assets as payment for goods and services.

The new law also affirms the right to self-custody holdings in self-hosted or hardware wallets, and crypto used as payment is exempt from any additional state or local tax. Mining operations received dedicated protections under the new law, with local governments prohibited from restricting mining businesses in industrial zones or applying sound-level limits beyond an area's general noise ordinances.

The legislation follows similar moves by other US states, including Kentucky which passed House Bill 701 into law in March 2025. The anti-CBDC provisions prohibit any state agency, board, commission, department, or political subdivision from accepting or requiring payment in central bank digital currency.