Prohibits the compelled production of a private key as it relates to a digital asset, digital identity or other interest or right.

RI Bill Summary: Protection of Digital Asset Private Keys

This bill would make it illegal for the government or other parties to force someone to hand over their private key — a secret password or code used to access digital assets like cryptocurrency, digital identity accounts, or other online rights and property. Think of a private key like a combination to a safe: it's the only way to access what's locked inside a digital account or wallet. Under this bill, no one could be legally compelled to produce or reveal that code.

The bill primarily affects people who own cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin or Ethereum), hold digital identities, or possess other digital assets secured by private keys. It would also affect law enforcement and courts, which currently may seek access to someone's digital holdings during investigations or legal proceedings. Essentially, this bill would create a legal protection preventing authorities or other parties from demanding that someone unlock their own digital accounts or assets against their will.

This type of legislation touches on a broader debate about digital privacy rights — similar to questions about whether someone can be forced to unlock a phone or provide a password. Supporters of such measures often compare it to Fifth Amendment protections against self-incrimination, while critics may raise concerns about potential obstacles to legitimate law enforcement investigations.

The bill was recently referred to the House Innovation, Internet, & Technology Committee and is currently being held for further study, meaning lawmakers are still evaluating it before deciding whether to move it forward.