The Texas Blockchain Council & Riot Platforms, Inc. Reach Agreement with Energy Information Administration
In a recent development, the final agreement between the Texas Blockchain Council & Riot Platforms, Inc., and the Energy Information Administration (EIA) has been announced, and it’s a significant win for the blockchain and mining industry.
The EIA has agreed to voluntarily terminate the illegal EIA-862 collection action they initiated and commit to destroying all the information they have received and may still receive under the EIA-862. Additionally, they will cancel and withdraw the February 9th, 2024 notice for collection and replace it with a new Notice.
The new notice will be open for a full 60 days from the date it is released in the Federal Register, and the EIA has agreed to incorporate and consider any comments received on the previous notice into the new one.
This agreement signifies a victory for the mining industry, as it prevents the government from using a pretextual political “emergency” to push through data collection. The quick and decisive action of the Texas Blockchain Council & Riot prevented a clear violation.
However, the fight is not over yet. Stakeholders will need to file comments on the new data collection notice as soon as it is released. Antagonistic groups, such as the Sierra Club, are expected to support the EIA’s new data collection efforts, presenting weak arguments that will need to be addressed and overcome.
As a positive outcome, the Government has agreed to reimburse the Texas Blockchain Council & Riot Platforms, Inc., for $2,199.45 of court costs and attorney’s fees. While not covering the full expense, it is a welcome gesture.
It is important to note that this agreement does not constitute an admission of liability or wrongdoing. The battle may continue, but for now, the blockchain and mining industry can celebrate this significant victory.
This news story was written by Colin Crossman. Opinions expressed are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of BTC Inc or Bitcoin Magazine.
