The "Stop Insider Trading Act" aims to prevent potential conflicts of interest by imposing strict restrictions on the investment activities of Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children. Specifically, it prohibits these covered individuals from purchasing covered investments , which include securities issued by publicly traded companies and comparable synthetic interests like derivatives. Furthermore, the bill mandates an advanced notice requirement for selling covered investments. A Member of Congress must publicly disclose their intent to sell, including the projected date, description, and number of shares, between 7 and 14 calendar days prior to the sale. Exceptions exist for transactions by spouses or dependent children made on behalf of others or as part of their employment, and for reinvesting dividends. Violations of these restrictions carry substantial penalties, including a fee equal to the greater of $2,000 or 10 percent of the transaction value, plus any net gain realized from the investment. Any covered investments purchased in violation must be sold, and Members are explicitly prohibited from using official allowances or campaign funds to pay these fees. Unpaid fees can also lead to a referral to the Department of Justice.
The "Stop Insider Trading Act" aims to prevent potential conflicts of interest by imposing strict restrictions on the investment activities of Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children. Specifically, it prohibits these covered individuals from purchasing covered investments , which include securities issued by publicly traded companies and comparable synthetic interests like derivatives. Furthermore, the bill mandates an advanced notice requirement for selling covered investments. A Member of Congress must publicly disclose their intent to sell, including the projected date, description, and number of shares, between 7 and 14 calendar days prior to the sale. Exceptions exist for transactions by spouses or dependent children made on behalf of others or as part of their employment, and for reinvesting dividends. Violations of these restrictions carry substantial penalties, including a fee equal to the greater of $2,000 or 10 percent of the transaction value, plus any net gain realized from the investment. Any covered investments purchased in violation must be sold, and Members are explicitly prohibited from using official allowances or campaign funds to pay these fees. Unpaid fees can also lead to a referral to the Department of Justice.