Tennessee county passes another ban on crypto operations
Summary
Hawkins County, Tennessee, unanimously approved a second ban on digital asset infrastructure, prohibiting the establishment, expansion, and operation of crypto mining facilities and data centers in unincorporated areas. The county had already enacted a similar restriction in September 2025 while trying to block ExoticRidge’s mining project, and later affirmed its authority to do so. A January settlement proposal would have allowed ExoticRidge to operate with strict noise limits. The move fits a broader Tennessee crackdown on crypto-related businesses, including a state law that took effect July 1 banning cryptocurrency ATMs and kiosks to help curb scams targeting residents, especially seniors.
