Here’s another rewritten version with a more concise, news-focused structure:
The Senate is unlikely to complete the crypto market structure bill before lawmakers leave for their summer recess, according to Senate Majority Leader John Thune. However, he said the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act could still begin its Senate floor journey before the break.
Crypto industry leaders and congressional negotiators had been working toward an August 7 deadline, viewing it as the final realistic opportunity to advance the bill and preserve its chances of becoming law in 2026. That target now appears increasingly difficult to meet.
Thune said he wants to at least start the legislative process before recess, though the outcome depends on whether enough senators support moving forward.
Beginning debate before the break could keep the bill alive for a limited Senate session in September. Still, lawmakers will face a crowded schedule as the November midterm elections approach, with campaign activity and other legislative priorities competing for attention.
The Clarity Act has also encountered political hurdles since the release of its latest draft. Members of both parties have criticized sections of the proposal, while many Democrats have objected to provisions addressing limits on crypto activities by senior government officials, including President Donald Trump.
The crypto sector and its allies in Congress had hoped the Senate could complete the bill within weeks. Any significant delay into the final months of the year could weaken its chances of passing in 2026.
Thune’s office said the Senate’s next major priority is expected to be a bipartisan measure involving sanctions against Russian officials and tariffs on trading partners. The bill, previously backed by Senator Lindsey Graham, could reach the Senate floor soon, although lawmakers are also preparing for Graham’s funeral.
White House crypto adviser Patrick Witt offered a more optimistic outlook, saying the first week of August could still provide an opportunity for Senate action. While he agreed a July vote is unlikely, Witt said the bill remains within reach.
Congress is scheduled to return for only a few weeks in September before the November elections. Even if the Senate approves the Clarity Act, the House would still need to pass its own version before it could become law.
The legislation remains the crypto industry’s top policy priority, as supporters believe it could finally establish a permanent regulatory framework for digital assets in the U.S.
However, the Senate approval process remains challenging, requiring 60 votes to overcome procedural hurdles. The bill still faces opposition over issues including stablecoin yield rules and ethics-related provisions.
Senator Cynthia Lummis, one of the bill’s key negotiators, said disputed sections are still being revised and could potentially be adjusted to attract more Democratic support.
Supporters believe advancing the bill to the Senate floor could create pressure for lawmakers to resolve remaining disagreements. Whether that happens depends on whether leadership can secure floor time before the summer recess.
