Napoleon Nelson hosting ‘fireside chats’ with blockchain technology insiders

HARRISBURG, Sept. 14 – As chairman of the bipartisan Emerging Technologies Caucus, state Rep. Napoleon Nelson will host the first two in a series of fireside chats with blockchain technology insiders this week.

“There’s no better time than now to dive right into the world of blockchain technology, helping describe what it is, how it works, and what it can do for our commonwealth,” Nelson said. “I am looking forward to chatting with and learning from the first in a series of experts who are dedicated to promoting cryptocurrency and discussing the related banking regulations and why it’s important for residents of Pennsylvania to understand this new technology.”

These virtual events are open to the public. Media is also invited to attend.

The first will start at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 15 and will feature Andrew Bull, founding partner of Bull Blockchain Law in Philadelphia.

The second will start at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 16 and will feature Reba Beeson, general counsel for AlphaPoint.

Each event can be accessed by visiting PaHouse.com/EmergingTech and clicking on the respective graphic under “Featured Events.” The chats will also be livestreamed on YouTube.

Nelson, D-Montgomery, is in his first term as representative of the 154th Legislative District. With a B.S. from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, he is a finance professional with experience in investment analysis, planning and corporate strategy.

He launched the Emerging Technologies Caucus this spring to help the commonwealth’s elected leaders learn about new and developing technology by working closely with innovators, including academics, entrepreneurs and businesses, and to help foster innovation while responsibly allowing Pennsylvania to compete in the new digital era.

This summer, Nelson introduced his Blockchain Technology Bill Package, which includes H.B. 1370 and H.R. 121. The bill, which was referred to the House Commerce Committee, would establish a two-year financial technology sandbox program, while the resolution, which was also referred to the Commerce Committee, would establish a blockchain working group to create a master plan for the growth of the blockchain industry in Pennsylvania, including developing appropriate recommendations for new laws and regulations.