CLARITY Act Update After Failure: SEC Chair Breaks Silence, Says ‘Stay Tuned’

SEC Chairman Paul Atkins thanked everyone involved in pushing the CLARITY Act forward, across the administration, Congress, investors and innovators, while confirming the SEC will move ahead regardless of the bill’s outcome. “I have been unequivocal: with or without legislation, we will act decisively within the SEC’s statutory authority to deliver certainty for American investors and for the entrepreneurs shaping our technological future,” Atkins said. “Stay tuned.”

A Pattern of Agency-Level Action

Atkins’ comments followed a separate announcement detailing the SEC’s latest regulatory moves, which he said reflect a focus on keeping Commission rules within the agency’s statutory authority while aligning with current and anticipated market practices. The SEC proposed rescinding Rule 14a-8, arguing the rule exceeds the agency’s statutory scope and intrudes into matters of state law. The Commission also proposed amendments to Rule 14a-4(c), aimed at giving companies more flexibility and shareholders greater control over proposals eligible for discretionary proxy voting authority.

House Moves Forward on Crypto Tax Legislation

Away from the SEC, the House Ways and Means Committee advanced the Digital Asset Tax Certainty Act in a 38-5 vote. The bill would ease tax treatment for small crypto transactions, clarify how stablecoins are handled, and address rules governing mining, staking and wash sales. It still needs full House approval before moving to the Senate.