Sen. Theodros files bill in North Carolina Senate for digital assets and payment systems studies

A new bill filed by State Sen. Caleb Theodros seeks to evaluate digital asset payments and remittance systems, aiming to inform future policy recommendations in North Carolina, according to the North Carolina State Senate.

The bill, filed as SB 975 on April 30 during the 2025 regular session, was formally listed with the short title: ‘State Digital Asset Payments Study Act.’

The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.

In essence, this bill directs the Department of State Treasurer to conduct two statewide studies: one on the feasibility, risks and benefits of accepting certain digital assets, especially regulated dollar-backed stablecoins, as payment for selected state fees through processors that immediately convert them to U.S. dollars, and another on household remittance costs and international payment systems used by North Carolina residents. The studies must address technology, cybersecurity, legal and regulatory issues, consumer protection, competition, and financial stability, and result in policy recommendations. The bill appropriates $50,000 for the 2026-27 fiscal year and takes effect when it becomes law.

Of the three sponsors of this bill, Paul A. Lowe, Jr. proposed the most bills (49) during the 2025 regular session.

Bills in North Carolina follow a multi-step process before becoming law. A lawmaker starts by filing a bill, which is assigned to a committee for review. The bill must be read three times in each chamber. If one chamber changes the bill after the other passes it, both must agree on the final version. Once both chambers approve the same bill, it goes to the governor, who has 10 days (or 30 if the legislature is not in session) to sign, veto, or let it become law without a signature.

You can read more about the bills and other measures here.

Theodros graduated from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte with a BA.

Theodros, a Democrat, was elected to the North Carolina State Senate in 2025 to represent the state’s 41st Senate district, replacing previous state senator Natasha Marcus.