French Hill Predicts CLARITY Act Passage Before November Midterms

U.S. Rep. French Hill believes the CLARITY Act can clear Congress before the November midterm elections, as the Senate prepares for a crucial vote on the crypto market structure legislation.

Hill, the Republican chair of the House Financial Services Committee, emphasized the importance of establishing clearer rules for the U.S. digital asset industry. Speaking with Fox Business, he echoed SEC Chairman Paul Atkins’ support for advancing the legislation.

“I agree with Chairman Atkins of the SEC that passing CLARITY is critical,” Hill said.

The Senate is scheduled to hold a cloture vote on the CLARITY Act on September 15 at 2:15 p.m. ET. Senate Majority Leader John Thune filed the cloture motion before lawmakers left Washington for the August recess, setting the legislation up for action after their return.

The procedural vote represents a significant hurdle. Ending debate requires 60 Senate votes, while Republicans currently control 53 seats. That means Democratic support will be necessary for the crypto bill to advance.

Hill pointed to the legislation’s previous bipartisan backing in the House as evidence that lawmakers can reach an agreement.

“We passed the CLARITY Act in the House last summer with 78 Democratic votes,” Hill said, adding that it is now time for the Senate to act.

However, Congress faces a tight legislative calendar ahead of the November elections. House leadership canceled the final two weeks of September sessions, while an election recess is expected to begin around September 17. Any Senate amendments could therefore leave the House with limited time to reconsider and approve the bill.

Despite the scheduling challenges, Hill said senators from both parties have spent the past year working toward consensus on digital asset regulation. He stressed that the final outcome will ultimately depend on whether supporters can secure enough votes.

The CLARITY Act would expand the U.S. regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies and blockchain-based financial markets, following the GENIUS Act’s establishment of federal rules for payment stablecoins.

Still, expectations for CLARITY Act passage in 2026 have weakened following the House schedule changes. With the September 15 Senate vote approaching and lawmakers preparing for election season, the bill faces a narrow window to reach President Donald Trump’s desk.

“It all comes down to the votes,” Hill said.