The "Conflict-free Leaving Employment and Activity Restrictions Path Act," or CLEAR Path Act, aims to prevent and mitigate potential conflicts of interest for senior United States officials after government service. It specifically targets individuals who have held Senate-confirmed positions within the executive branch. The Act introduces new, extended post-employment restrictions under title 18, United States Code. Under these new provisions, individuals who served in Senate-confirmed roles are prohibited from knowingly representing, aiding, or advising a foreign governmental entity of a country of concern before any U.S. executive or legislative branch officer or employee. This restriction applies at any time after their service termination, with the intent to influence official decisions. However, the restrictions themselves are subject to a sunset clause , expiring five years after the Act's enactment, and only apply to appointees confirmed on or after the enactment date. The bill defines "country of concern" and "foreign governmental entity" by referencing existing law, while clarifying that legal representation by a licensed attorney is not included in the term "represent." Furthermore, the Act mandates that individuals subject to these restrictions receive notice upon both their appointment and the termination of their service. To ensure adaptability, the legislation also establishes a mechanism allowing the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Attorney General, to propose modifications to the list of "countries of concern," which would then require congressional approval via a joint resolution.
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CLEAR Path Act
USA119th CongressS-2132| Senate
| Updated: 1/28/2026
The "Conflict-free Leaving Employment and Activity Restrictions Path Act," or CLEAR Path Act, aims to prevent and mitigate potential conflicts of interest for senior United States officials after government service. It specifically targets individuals who have held Senate-confirmed positions within the executive branch. The Act introduces new, extended post-employment restrictions under title 18, United States Code. Under these new provisions, individuals who served in Senate-confirmed roles are prohibited from knowingly representing, aiding, or advising a foreign governmental entity of a country of concern before any U.S. executive or legislative branch officer or employee. This restriction applies at any time after their service termination, with the intent to influence official decisions. However, the restrictions themselves are subject to a sunset clause , expiring five years after the Act's enactment, and only apply to appointees confirmed on or after the enactment date. The bill defines "country of concern" and "foreign governmental entity" by referencing existing law, while clarifying that legal representation by a licensed attorney is not included in the term "represent." Furthermore, the Act mandates that individuals subject to these restrictions receive notice upon both their appointment and the termination of their service. To ensure adaptability, the legislation also establishes a mechanism allowing the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Attorney General, to propose modifications to the list of "countries of concern," which would then require congressional approval via a joint resolution.