The Crypto Council for Innovation and Blockchain Association, two prominent industry advocacy groups, have announced plans to collaborate with the Digital Chamber and other organizations to seek a court review of Illinois’s controversial digital asset tax. The measure, which imposes a 0.2% tax on crypto transactions, is currently set to take effect in July 2027.
Push for expedited legal process
On Tuesday, the organizations filed a joint request in the Circuit Court of Sangamon County, Illinois, urging the court to set an expedited timetable for summary judgment. The aim is to secure a definitive ruling on the legality of the digital asset tax as soon as possible. The groups cited ongoing lawsuits, including one presented by the Crypto Council for Innovation and Blockchain Association and another by the Digital Chamber and Illinois Blockchain Association, which challenge state officials over the tax’s implementation.
The advocacy groups expressed concern that, even with enforcement delayed, uncertainty about the law’s fate could disrupt the state’s crypto sector. “While pausing enforcement of the Digital Asset Tax Act protects Illinois consumers and businesses from this onerous and legally flawed tax until July 1, it remains imperative that the merits are determined as soon as possible,” stated Ji Kim, CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation.
“While pausing enforcement of the Digital Asset Tax Act protects Illinois consumers and businesses from this onerous and legally flawed tax until July 1, it remains imperative that the merits are determined as soon as possible,” stated Ji Kim, CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation.
The court could rule on the matter as early as March if it approves the accelerated schedule requested by the plaintiffs.
Illinois authorities agreed in early June to delay enforcing the tax, moving its start date from January to July 2027. The postponement came in response to legal action from industry groups. These groups argued that the digital asset tax was passed without proper debate or public input, raising concerns about transparency and due process.
| Event | Original Date | New Date |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Asset Tax Implementation | January 1, 2027 | July 1, 2027 |
Cody Carbone, CEO of the Digital Chamber, stated that the organization would continue pursuing legal action “until this tax is struck down for good.” Both the Digital Chamber and the Blockchain Association are known for advocating for favorable digital asset and blockchain regulation at the state and federal level.
The Illinois Blockchain Association and the Digital Chamber’s legal approach reflects growing unease in the industry about potentially burdensome regulatory measures introduced without comprehensive debate.
Mini dictionary: Crypto Council for Innovation, an advocacy group focused on promoting responsible crypto regulation and fostering dialogue between industry and policymakers.
Leadership changes at Blockchain Association
In a related development, the Blockchain Association is undergoing a leadership transition. CEO Summer Mersinger is scheduled to step down from her role on Friday. Mersinger joined the association in 2023 after leaving her position at the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission, where she played a role in digital asset oversight.
Kristin Smith, who led the Blockchain Association before Mersinger’s tenure, will return as interim head. Despite stepping down as CEO, Mersinger is expected to continue supporting the association’s initiatives until the end of 2026.
These changes come as the organization intensifies efforts to challenge state-level digital asset regulations and promote industry interests nationwide.
