NAAUSA at the Table: Advocacy on the CLARITY Act
NAAUSA continues to play an active role in congressional and Administration discussions surrounding the Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act, representing the perspectives of Assistant United States Attorneys as lawmakers consider one of the most significant digital asset policy proposals before Congress.
Over the past several weeks, NAAUSA has participated in meetings with senior White House officials, Department of Justice leadership, Treasury officials, and Senate Banking Committee offices from both parties. Working alongside the National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the National Sheriffs' Association (NSA), the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), and other national law enforcement organizations, NAAUSA has worked to ensure that the practical experience of federal prosecutors remains part of the legislative process.
NAAUSA has consistently emphasized that responsible innovation and effective law enforcement are complementary—not competing—objectives. Rather than opposing digital asset innovation, the Association has advocated for a targeted legislative solution that protects legitimate software developers while preserving the longstanding investigative and prosecutorial authorities relied upon to combat money laundering, fentanyl trafficking, child exploitation, sanctions evasion, terrorism financing, and other complex financial crimes. NAAUSA has supported a narrower approach, reflected in Senator Catherine Cortez Masto's proposed amendment, that seeks to provide greater regulatory clarity without creating unintended gaps in oversight.
Earlier this month, NAAUSA joined NDAA, IACP, and NSA in submitting a coalition letter to senior Administration officials outlining the law enforcement community's concerns with Section 604 while reaffirming its commitment to working toward a constructive solution.
The Association's advocacy has also received significant national media attention.
POLITICO Pro identified NAAUSA as one of four national law enforcement organizations meeting directly with senior White House officials and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche regarding Section 604 of the CLARITY Act. The publication also quoted extensively from the coalition letter, including:
"The law enforcement community has consistently expressed concern that broad exemptions could create gaps in oversight and accountability that sophisticated criminal actors may exploit."
POLITICO Pro further reported that Senate negotiators continue working to address the concerns raised by the law enforcement coalition as discussions on the legislation move forward.
Coverage by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) likewise highlighted NAAUSA's advocacy, quoted from the coalition letter, and published the letter in full. The Block also covered the coalition's engagement with Congress and the Administration while linking directly to the coalition letter. Meanwhile, Benzinga reported that negotiations surrounding Section 604 had become a significant factor affecting the bill's prospects in the Senate, specifically noting the law enforcement coalition's advocacy.
NAAUSA will continue engaging with congressional offices, Administration officials, and coalition partners as negotiations continue. We appreciate the many members who have shared their expertise throughout this process, ensuring that the voice and practical experience of Assistant United States Attorneys remain represented as Congress considers legislation with significant implications for federal criminal enforcement.