U.S. lawmakers push for payment modernization with Ripple's blockchain solutions in focus

A recent U.S. House Financial Services Committee hearing highlighted the need to modernise payment systems. Ripple was named as an example of faster, cheaper transactions during discussions. The session also explored proposals from industry leaders to upgrade the ACH network, which processed over $93 trillion in 2025 alone. Representative Sam Liccardo led questions about the slow pace of payment modernisation. He directed queries at Randall Guynn, Director of the Federal Reserve's Division of Supervision and Regulation. Liccardo referenced industry-backed ideas, including pre-funding ACH transactions—a proposal Ripple and Intuit have supported.

The hearing examined ways to improve efficiency in the ACH network, which handled $61 trillion in credit payments last year. Companies like Visa and Intuit suggested measures such as pre-funding requirements and stricter transaction limits. Ripple's February 2026 proposal, advocating pre-funded ACH accounts for stablecoin issuers like RLUSD, was also mentioned.

No public response from the Federal Reserve to Ripple's proposal has been recorded so far. However, the discussion reflects broader interest in blockchain-based solutions for payment infrastructure. Lawmakers are increasingly considering how such upgrades could shift significant transaction volumes on-chain. The hearing underscores a push for faster, more cost-effective payment systems in the U.S. Ideas like pre-funded ACH and stablecoin integration may shape future policy decisions. As blockchain technology gains traction, its role in modernising financial networks could expand further.