Rep. Lance Gooden of Texas believes the move could help foster more crypto adoption
A new proposal in Washington could lead to the installation of cryptocurrency ATMs inside federal buildings. Rep. Lance Gooden of Texas sent a letter on May 1 to the acting administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA), Stephen Ehikian, urging the agency to consider placing these machines in properties managed by the federal government.
Gooden argued that crypto ATMs could serve an educational role, helping the public and federal employees better understand the growth of digital assets and blockchain technology. He also suggested the move would reflect the country’s growing acceptance of financial innovation, adding that it aligns with former President Donald Trump’s interest in digital assets.
The GSA currently allows traditional ATMs from federal credit unions in its buildings, but it’s unclear if it has the authority to host machines run by private crypto companies like CoinFlip or Bitcoin Depot. The decision may ultimately require an act of Congress to authorize the placement and funding of these machines, especially given the current limitations under GSA guidelines.
Gooden, who has held no known investments in cryptocurrency or related businesses since taking office, has not filed a 2025 financial disclosure yet. His office hasn’t responded to requests for further comment.
At the same time, the Senate is considering the Crypto ATM Fraud Prevention Act, introduced by Illinois Senator Dick Durbin earlier this year. That bill aims to address fraud connected to crypto ATMs, particularly scams that have targeted older adults.
Trump has also remained involved in the crypto space. His campaign and family-linked businesses have been tied to various digital assets, and he’s even launched a dinner event for top holders of his TRUMP memecoin.
It remains uncertain how far Gooden’s proposal will go, but the conversation around crypto’s role in government spaces is clearly gaining traction.
