California embraces Bitcoin revolution as state moves to accept crypto payments

In a landmark decision, California lawmakers have unanimously advanced a bill that would allow state agencies to accept cryptocurrency payments—a move that could accelerate Bitcoin’s mainstream adoption and challenge the dominance of fiat currency. The bill, AB 1180, sailed through the State Assembly with a 68-0 vote and now heads to the Senate, signaling a growing recognition of digital assets as a legitimate form of payment. As governments and corporations worldwide grapple with inflation, economic instability, and centralized financial corruption, Bitcoin emerges as a decentralized alternative—one that empowers individuals and resists manipulation by central banks and corporate elites.

Key points:

• California’s AB 1180 would require state agencies to accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for fees and transactions by 2026.
• The bill complements AB 1052, a “Bitcoin rights” bill protecting self-custody and prohibiting restrictions on crypto payments.
• Over 117 California businesses already accept Bitcoin, including major retailers like Home Depot and Whole Foods.
• Bitcoin payments are projected to reach a $1.83 trillion market by 2030, driven by lower fees, faster transactions, and resistance to inflation.
• Consumers can pay with Bitcoin via direct transfers, crypto debit cards, or gift cards—each with unique advantages.

The rise of Bitcoin: A rebellion against fiat corruption

For decades, governments and central banks have manipulated fiat currencies, devaluing savings through inflation and bailouts for corporate cronies. Bitcoin, designed as a decentralized, finite asset, offers an escape from this rigged system. California’s push to accept crypto payments follows similar moves in Florida, Colorado, and Louisiana—states recognizing Bitcoin’s potential to restore financial sovereignty.

El Salvador made history in 2021 by adopting Bitcoin as legal tender, and the Central African Republic followed suit in 2022. Now, California—home to Silicon Valley and a hub of technological innovation—could become the next major jurisdiction to legitimize cryptocurrency.

How to pay with Bitcoin: A step-by-step guide

Bitcoin payments are simpler than many realize. Yet caution remains essential. Bitcoin transactions are irreversible—sending funds to the wrong address means permanent loss. Always verify wallet details and merchant legitimacy before paying. Here’s how to spend your crypto at major retailers:

1. Direct Bitcoin payments

• Use a crypto wallet (like Exodus or Trust Wallet) to send Bitcoin directly to a merchant’s wallet address.
• Scan a QR code or paste the recipient’s address, confirm the amount, and pay a small network fee.
• Example: Microsoft accepts Bitcoin for Xbox credits, while Wikipedia takes BTC donations via BitPay.

2. Crypto debit cards

• Services like Coinbase and Crypto.com offer Visa/Mastercard debit cards linked to your Bitcoin holdings.
• Funds are instantly converted to fiat at checkout, allowing spending at any merchant (even those not yet crypto-friendly).
• Example: The Avalanche Visa card lets users spend crypto via self-custody wallets.

3. Bitcoin gift cards

• Platforms like Bitrefill and Binance let you convert Bitcoin into gift cards for Amazon, Starbucks, Uber, and more.
• No bank account needed—just redeem the code via email.

Major brands accepting Bitcoin in 2025:

This list of major brands accepting Bitcoin continues to grow and includes the following:

• Whole Foods, AT&T and AMC Theaters accepting crypto payment through third-party apps.
• Namecheap (began accepting bitcoin transactions back in 2013)
• Microsoft (Xbox credits)
• Starbucks (via Bakkt app)
• McDonald’s (El Salvador & Switzerland)
• PayPal (Integrated through its apps)
• Home Depot & Whole Foods (via Flexa/SPEDN)
• Dallas Mavericks (Through Bitpay)
• Shopify (BitPay integration)
• Virgin Airlines (spaceflight bookings)
• Travala, Gyft, and NewEgg (cryptocurrency option at checkout)

As California moves toward crypto acceptance, the broader implications are clear: Bitcoin is no longer a fringe experiment but a viable alternative to failing fiat systems. With inflation eroding purchasing power and central banks printing money endlessly, individuals and businesses are seeking shelter in decentralized assets.

Sources include:

CoinTelegraph.com

BTCMap.org

CoinTelegraph.com