A senator from the US state of Arkansas is seeking answers from the governor’s office as there is an increase in the outcry over unwanted cryptocurrency mines in small towns across the state.
Residents Complain about Noise Pollution
Residents of Mountain Pine have complained over the “freaking loud” noise from a new crypto-mining facility in Garland County, according to a local news outlet Katv.
“It’s just freaking loud. High-pitched fans, that’s what you hear,” said Gary Muston, a resident who lives across the road from the mining facility.
Some residents complained that the noise can be heard as far as four or five miles away.
Sen. Bryan King Demands a Response
Arkansas lawmaker Sen. Bryan King is reportedly seeking a response to the outcries of the residents. King has requested records related to crypto mines in the locality from a governor’s office staffer, Legislative Director Jamie Barker.
According to another recent report from Katv, a law was passed early this year, welcoming crypto-mining businesses in the state and largely preventing local government from regulating crypto-mines.
The law, dubbed Act 851, notes that crypto mining activities can operate in this state if it complies with the state law concerning business guidelines and tax policies, ordinance concerning operations safety, and state employment laws.
Last month, King had requested to repeal the law during September’s special session, citing locals’ concerns. However, his motion was turned down.
“The government’s office denied my request, which argued that it is exempted from Arkansas’ Freedom of Information Act law,” King noted.
He also added that Jamie Barker did not invite him to a meeting with other county peers, which discussed crypto mining matters in the state.
The September special session did not discuss the issue of the state’s crypto-mining problem, leaving King criticizing the governor’s handling of the matter.
Following his questions, the governor’s communication director, Alexa Henning, responded in a statement that the office places the safety and security of Arkansans on top.
“This is exactly why the governor signed multiple bills into law, during her first legislative session, to protect the state from nefarious foreign influence,” Henning added.
