According to Cointelegraph, Detroit is set to allow its residents to pay taxes and city fees using cryptocurrency, aiming to modernize its payment systems and attract blockchain companies. This initiative, announced by Detroit’s Office of Treasury, will be implemented through a secure payment platform managed by PayPal starting mid-2025.
The announcement did not specify which cryptocurrencies would be accepted, but PayPal currently supports major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Litecoin (LTC), and its stablecoin PayPal USD (PYUSD). This move is part of Detroit's broader strategy to enhance its payment channels and operational efficiency while encouraging blockchain companies to establish themselves in the city. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan expressed enthusiasm about the city becoming one of the first major U.S. cities to explore blockchain applications for civic purposes, allowing residents to use cryptocurrency as a payment option.
In addition to introducing cryptocurrency payment options, Detroit is inviting blockchain entrepreneurs and innovators to propose ideas for blockchain civic applications. Interested applicants have until December 15 to submit their proposals to Justin Onwenu, the city’s director of entrepreneurship and economic opportunity. Onwenu highlighted the potential of blockchain technologies to improve accessibility, efficiency, transparency, and security, expressing eagerness to hear from entrepreneurs leading this innovation.
Once implemented, Detroit will join other U.S. cities and states, such as Miami Lakes in Florida and Williston in South Dakota, that accept cryptocurrency for taxes and city services. Colorado and Louisiana also accept cryptocurrency for civic services to varying extents, typically partnering with third-party payment vendors like PayPal or BitPay.
This initiative follows the recent election of crypto-friendly Donald Trump as President, which has sparked anticipation within the crypto industry for pro-crypto policies and regulatory clarity. Expectations include potential changes such as the dismissal of the current SEC Chair Gary Gensler and the introduction of a national strategic Bitcoin reserve.
