Digital Assets (Scotland) Bill: equality impact assessment (EQIA) screening
The equality impact assessment (EQIA) for the Digital Assets (Scotland) Bill clarifies how digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies and NFTs are treated under Scots private law. The Bill will not adversely impact individuals with protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.
Stage 1: Framing
Results of framing exercise
The Bill will impact those who create, transact with or invest in digital assets. The provisions in the Bill are overall neutral and would apply equally to any person who makes the decision to engage with digital assets. There is no compulsion on any persons to engage with digital assets, and for those not wishing to do so alternatives might be sought. The provisions in the Bill are to clarify the legal status of digital assets since the Scottish courts have not had an opportunity to provide judicial authority.
Accordingly, the Scottish Government has concluded that the Bill will not adversely impact upon any person by virtue of their particular religion, belief, age, sexual orientation, gender, race, or ethnicity.
Extent/Level of EQIA required
As the degree of impact on the protected characteristics is expected to be minimal, it is our opinion that the level of EQIA needed is low.
Contact
Email: digitalassets@gov.scot