Senate CLARITY Act Vote Delayed as Deadline Looms

The U.S. Senate's floor schedule for Monday did not include the CLARITY Act, leaving the crypto market structure bill just five days to pass before lawmakers leave for their August recess.

Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper called the bill a national security imperative this week, emphasizing its importance in bringing digital assets into a clear regulatory system. However, some critics argue that the bill fails to address vulnerabilities exploited by criminals and foreign adversaries.

Industry pressure has intensified as the deadline approaches, with Grayscale urging Senate leaders to hold a vote before the August recess, warning that further delay threatens U.S. competitiveness in digital assets. Stand With Crypto reported that supporters had contacted lawmakers one million times urging passage before the Aug. 7 break.

The bill's odds have wavered under the pressure of the deadline, with Galaxy Research cutting its estimated probability of CLARITY Act enactment in 2026 from 50% to 30%. If the Senate fails to act by Friday, the bill will not return to the floor until September 14.