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The Senate is expected to miss its target timeline for advancing the crypto market structure bill before the summer recess, according to Majority Leader John Thune. However, he indicated that lawmakers could still begin the Senate floor process before leaving Washington.
The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act had been expected to move forward by August 7, a deadline viewed by industry supporters and congressional negotiators as crucial for keeping the legislation on track for passage in 2026. That goal now appears unlikely.
Thune said he wants to at least launch debate on the bill before the break, though the next steps will depend on whether the legislation can secure enough votes.
Starting the process before recess could give the bill a chance to return during the Senate’s limited September session. However, lawmakers will soon shift focus toward the November midterm elections, leaving limited time for major legislation.
The bill has faced growing political disputes since its latest draft was released. Lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns, while many Democrats have opposed provisions related to restrictions on crypto activities by senior government officials, including President Donald Trump.
Crypto advocates had hoped the Senate could finalize the Clarity Act within weeks, but delays into later in the year could significantly reduce its chances of becoming law in 2026.
Thune’s office said the Senate’s immediate priority is a bipartisan package involving sanctions on Russian officials and tariffs on trade partners. The measure, previously promoted by Senator Lindsey Graham, is expected to receive floor time soon, although the Senate schedule will also be affected by Graham’s funeral.
White House crypto adviser Patrick Witt pushed back against the idea that the bill’s timeline has closed, saying the first week of August could still provide an opportunity for Senate action. While he acknowledged that a July vote is unlikely, he said the legislation remains possible before recess.
With lawmakers preparing for election campaigns, Congress will only return briefly in September. Even if the Senate passes the Clarity Act, the legislation would still need approval from the House before reaching the president’s desk.
The bill remains the crypto industry’s leading policy priority, as supporters believe it could provide a long-term regulatory framework for digital assets in the United States.
Still, the path forward remains uncertain. Senate rules require a 60-vote threshold for major legislation, and the bill continues to face disagreements over issues such as stablecoin yields and government ethics provisions.
Senator Cynthia Lummis, a key Republican negotiator, said the most controversial parts of the bill remain open to changes that could attract additional Democratic backing.
Supporters hope moving the bill onto the Senate floor will increase pressure on lawmakers to resolve remaining disputes. Whether that happens depends on whether leadership can secure enough time before the summer break.
