A Freshman Congressman From Nashville Wants To Make The National Bitcoin Reserve Permanent

The American Reserve Modernization Act of 2026, spearheaded by Rep. Matt Van Epps, is not just a national security measure but a reflection of the burgeoning Bitcoin community in Nashville. Van Epps, representing Tennessee’s 7th District, sees the bill as a way to support the financial innovation happening in his own backyard.

Nashville is quickly establishing itself as a leading Bitcoin hub, with institutions like Bitcoin Park and the annual Bitcoin conference set to return to the city in 2027. Van Epps, a West Point graduate and combat helicopter pilot turned congressman, views the bill as a representation of what his district already embodies.

The legislation, co-led by Rep. Nick Begich, aims to codify President Trump’s executive order establishing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve within the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The reserve would hold BTC seized through federal law enforcement actions, with any future sales earmarked exclusively for reducing the national debt.

Van Epps emphasizes the fiscal importance of the bill, citing the staggering national debt of $39 trillion. He argues that Bitcoin’s fixed supply and long-term appreciation provide a unique solution to the country’s financial woes. The provision to hold BTC in the reserve for a minimum of 20 years aims to prevent short-term political interference and treat the asset as a strategic generational decision.

Transparency is a key component of the legislation, with requirements for quarterly public Proof of Reserve reports and independent third-party audits. The bill has garnered support from 18 original co-sponsors across nine states, but faces challenges in the Senate where competing crypto legislation is under consideration.

Overall, Van Epps sees Bitcoin as a tool that can address critical issues facing the U.S., with the national debt being a primary concern. By leveraging the potential of digital assets and implementing rigorous oversight measures, the American Reserve Modernization Act of 2026 aims to pave the way for a more secure financial future.