Cruz Seeks Permanent Ban on Central Bank Digital Currencies

• Cruz moves to permanently ban CBDCs, citing privacy and digital surveillance concerns.

• Housing bill reforms aim to streamline permits and boost U.S. housing supply efficiently.

• Debate over CBDCs shows privacy concerns now intersect with broader federal legislation.

Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) is moving swiftly to make the prohibition of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) permanent. He filed an amendment to the Senate’s 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act that would remove the current sunset clause, which expires on December 31, 2030.

Journalist Eleanor Terrett confirmed on X that Cruz plans to push for a vote on it next week. The amendment, if approved, will permanently prohibit digital dollars issued by the Federal Reserve due to concerns over privacy and surveillance. Cruz originally introduced his Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act in 2025, which aimed to prohibit digital dollars, much like his latest legislation.

The housing bill aims to resolve the increasing housing crisis in America. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which focuses on zoning reform, building incentives, and permitting, was officially introduced on March 2, 2026.

This will reduce bureaucratic red tape in the process, thus increasing the supply of housing. The law also coordinates the efforts of various federal agencies, uses standardized language for funding, and minimizes duplicative reporting requirements for the HUD and the Economic Development Administration.

Amendments Highlight Broader Policy Battles

Cruz’s amendment, SA 4318, specifically strikes lines 15-16 on page 302 of amendment No. 4308, originally proposed by Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). By removing the sunset date, Cruz ensures long-term protection against potential digital surveillance.

Additionally, Senators Young and Schatz’s SA 4317 has provisions for reporting on land use rules, such as accessory dwelling units and multifamily zoning. Lastly, Senator Elissa Slotkin’s SA 4319 exploits the Defense Production Act to increase building materials while declaring a National Housing Emergency.

However, some senators are worried that if CBDC is permanently prohibited, it may prevent the United States from advancing its financial infrastructure and digital payments. However, supporters of the prohibition contend that eliminating the expiration date protects American residents’ financial privacy and stops governmental overreach. In this regard, it is clear that conversations around digital currency are becoming entangled with other unrelated bills.