A Texas member of the US House of Representatives has proposed that government officials consider installing cryptocurrency ATMs in federal buildings across the country. This initiative aims not only to provide a convenient service but also to educate the public about modern financial technologies.
In a letter dated May 1 to Stephen Ehikian, the acting administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA) — the agency responsible for managing US government properties — Rep. Lance Gooden asserted that the introduction of cryptocurrency ATMs could serve as an “educational resource” reflecting advancements in financial technology. He requested that the GSA explore the guidelines and regulations necessary for implementing such ATMs within government-controlled properties nationwide, aligning this proposal with the broader goals set by former President Donald Trump.
Gooden’s financial disclosure reports reveal that he has held no investments in cryptocurrency or ATM companies since he took office in 2019, and he has yet to file any disclosures for 2025 investments. This lack of personal financial interest may mitigate potential conflicts of interest regarding his proposal.
While the GSA indicates it may offer space for ATMs from federal credit unions, it remains unclear whether the acting administrator possesses the authority to broaden regulations to incorporate digital asset ATMs affiliated with private entities such as Bitcoin Depot or CoinFlip. Attempts to obtain a comment from Gooden’s office went unanswered at the time of publication.
Notably, Gooden’s proposal emerges as US Senate lawmakers consider legislation aimed at combating fraud associated with cryptocurrency ATMs. In February, Illinois Senator Dick Durbin introduced the Crypto ATM Fraud Prevention Act, which seeks to establish “common sense guardrails” to protect vulnerable populations, particularly senior citizens, from fraud.
Decision-Making Authority: A Complex Landscape
The extent of Ehikian’s authority to independently install cryptocurrency ATMs without congressional approval remains uncertain. The potential requirement for an act of Congress to authorize funding complicates this initiative further. Notably, former President Trump, who has considerable exposure to the cryptocurrency space through his investments and personal interests, could influence the decision-making process surrounding the proposal.
In April, Trump highlighted his involvement with cryptocurrencies by organizing a dinner in Washington, D.C., for top holders of his memecoin, a further indication of his engagement with the digital asset ecosystem.
As the landscape for cryptocurrencies and digital asset regulation continues to evolve, the proposal to install cryptocurrency ATMs in federal buildings serves as a potential catalyst for broader acceptance and education surrounding these innovative financial tools. The conversation around fraud prevention and consumer protection will also play a crucial role in shaping the future of cryptocurrency regulation in the United States.
