Bill > S2852

This bill, called the Restoring Trust in Public Servants Act, establishes comprehensive ethics reforms for federal officials across legislative, executive, and judicial branches, primarily focusing on three key areas. First, it prohibits covered officials (which include Members of Congress, the President, Vice President, political appointees, and certain other government employees) and their family members from owning or trading certain investments like securities, commodities, digital assets, and complex financial instruments, with some exceptions for diversified mutual funds and government retirement plans. Officials will have a 90-day period to divest such investments, and violations will result in financial penalties, including potentially forfeiting an entire month's salary for high-ranking officials. Second, the bill significantly restricts outside earned income for Members of Congress, essentially eliminating most external compensation beyond a limited 15% allowance, with specific carve-outs for medical practice and teaching. Third, it imposes a lifetime lobbying ban on Members of Congress, preventing them from making lobbying contacts or engaging in lobbying activities after leaving office, with additional restrictions on communications with congressional or executive branch officials. The legislation aims to reduce potential conflicts of interest and increase transparency in public service by creating stricter financial and post-employment conduct standards.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2852/all-info