Santa Cruz debuts digital blockchain wallet pilot program

Santa Cruz County, California takes a bold step toward modernization by implementing a blockchain-based digital wallet pilot program for government services and official documentation.

In a groundbreaking move, Santa Cruz County, located in Northern California, has taken a leap toward digitization by integrating blockchain-based solutions into government processes.

The County Board of supervisors met on April 25th and unanimously agreed to implement digital wallets for governmental services and official documentation.

A three-stage pilot program, powered by HUMBL, will commence in July 2023. During the pilot, mobile users will be able to access services like bicycle and RV parking registration via the white-label digital wallet.

“We believe the value of digitizing paper documents, records, and services is an important step forward for the convenience of Santa Cruz County residents and improving equity and access for our community.”

Zach Friend, Santa Cruz County supervisor.

Future pilots may include park facility registration, volunteer hour tracking, building permit distribution, and pet licensing.

Following a successful pilot, the county aims to release a formal report and a rollout plan by September 2023. The digital wallet project materialized after the Santa Cruz Board of supervisors collaborated with HUMBL in April 2022 to develop the necessary technology infrastructure.

Despite the enthusiasm from local officials, some residents have expressed concerns. An open discussion forum on the county’s website revealed apprehension from individuals like Becky Seinbruner, who requested the suspension of digital wallet development.

Seinbruner cited concerns over “inappropriate use and sales of personal data” by HUMBL, the infrastructure provider.

To address such concerns, officials plan to evaluate user trust in the technology and gauge their understanding of the system during the pilot period. As Santa Cruz County ventures into the world of blockchain-based government solutions, both the potential benefits and challenges will be closely monitored.