Hawkins County cryptocurrency mining ban challenged in federal lawsuit

GREENEVILLE, Tenn. (WCYB) — A Hawkins County choice to ban cryptocurrency mining has been challenged in federal court docket.

Courtroom paperwork present a lawsuit was filed on Tuesday in Greeneville, naming Hawkins County because the defendant.

The lawsuit, filed by ExoticRidge Crypto Firm, claims the county’s ban on cryptocurrency mining and knowledge facilities violates constitutional protections, together with rights below the 14th Modification.

In accordance with the submitting, the corporate had plans to function a cryptocurrency mining facility however was blocked after the county accredited a sweeping restriction.

News 5 previously covered the issue in September 2025, when Hawkins County commissioners voted 10-2 to ban cryptocurrency mining and knowledge facilities following neighborhood issues about noise and potential impacts on high quality of life.

Courtroom paperwork additionally reference prior county actions associated to land-use authority, together with a decision emphasizing limits on authorities regulation of personal property.

The lawsuit argues the county’s motion successfully created zoning-style restrictions with out following required authorized procedures.

The county has 21 days to answer the lawsuit.