PANews reported on October 17th that according to The Block, Florida lawmakers have begun the 2026 legislative session with plans to include Bitcoin in the state's arsenal of financial instruments. House Bill 183, introduced in the Florida House of Representatives, would allow the state's chief financial officer to invest up to 10% of designated public funds (including general revenue funds, budget stabilization funds, and various trust funds) in "digital assets" and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). If passed, the bill would also authorize the state board of governors to invest up to 10% of the Florida Retirement System Trust Fund in digital assets. The bill defines digital assets as including Bitcoin, tokenized securities, and NFTs, and sets strict custody and control requirements. Assets can be held in the custody of the chief financial officer, a qualified custodian, or through an SEC-registered ETF. HB 183 positions Bitcoin as a potential store of value and inflation hedge for state funds and would also allow Florida residents to use digital assets to pay certain taxes and fees. HB 183 is currently awaiting House committee assignment and hearing. If advanced, it would still require Senate approval and the governor's signature to become law.