The US Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit is currently reviewing a request to lift an injunction that prevents Arkansas from enforcing laws restricting foreign-controlled Bitcoin mining operations. The court held hearings on the matter on January 14-15, 2026, and October 20, 2026, but has not yet issued a final ruling.
The legal dispute involves Act 636 of 2023 and Act 174 of 2024, which prohibit businesses linked to countries on the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations list from holding interests in local mining enterprises. Act 174 specifically took effect in May 2024.
The challenge was initiated by Jones Eagle LLC, led by Qimin Chen. In November 2024, Judge Kristine G. Baker issued a temporary restraining order, followed by a preliminary injunction in December 2024. The injunction was subsequently expanded in April 2025.
Arkansas maintains that the laws regulate land use and align with national security policies. Conversely, the plaintiffs argue that the state is attempting to conduct foreign policy. Separately, Jones Eagle faces a $280 000 penalty related to local noise ordinance disputes.
