Texas Republican urges the government to install crypto ATMs in federal buildings to align with President Donald Trump’s pro-crypto vision. On May 1, 2025, Congressman Lance Gooden, addressing the Acting Administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA), Stephen Ehikian, wrote “I am writing to you regarding an important issue that aligns with the General Services Administration’s (GSA) mission to foster innovation and enhance public service infrastructure: the installation of cryptocurrency ATMs within federal buildings across the United States.”
Supporting his frame of mind, the congressman further explained that by providing access to cryptocurrency ATMs in federal buildings, “we have the unique opportunity to ensure that our public spaces reflect this rapidly evolving trend and support the financial needs of a diverse and growing consumer base.” Furthermore, expanding accessibility to crypto ATMs within federal buildings aligns with President Trump’s vision of positioning the United States as a global leader in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, stated Gooden.
The installation of ATMs is expected to improve accessibility and serve as a tool for public education. Their presence in federal buildings is believed to further signal the government’s commitment to embracing innovation securely and responsibly.
Meanwhile, the FBI’s Internet Crime Report for 2024 stated that there was a 99% increase in complaints from 2023-2024, in cryptocurrency ATMs and kiosks. Additionally, the losses incurred in 2024 increased by 31% compared to 2023.
The FBI warned the public of criminal actors, in various fraudulent schemes, maliciously leveraging cryptocurrency ATMs and QR codes to receive payments from victims. Schemes include online impersonation schemes, romance, and lottery schemes.
