**Ohio Lawmaker Proposes Bitcoin Reserve Bill**

Ohio is making waves in the crypto world as House Republican leader Derek Merrin introduces HB 703, aiming to establish a Bitcoin fund within the state's treasury. This move follows similar initiatives in Texas and Pennsylvania. Merrin argues that Bitcoin could protect Ohio's finances against the devaluation of the U.S. Dollar, offering a modern approach to asset allocation. Although the bill won't be enacted this session, Merrin hopes it will set the stage for swift legislative action in the next session starting January 2025. The bill reflects growing interest in Bitcoin as a financial tool.