Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee
Introduced
In Committee
On Floor
Passed Chamber
Enacted
This legislation, titled the "Stop Insider Trading Act," aims to prevent potential conflicts of interest by imposing strict limitations on financial transactions by Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children. It specifically prohibits these covered individuals from purchasing covered investments , which include securities issued by publicly traded companies and related financial instruments, while serving in federal office. Certain investments, such as diversified funds, small business interests, and specific trusts, are excluded from these restrictions. The bill also mandates an advanced notice requirement for selling covered investments. A Member of Congress must publicly disclose an intent to sell, on behalf of themselves or their family, at least 7 but no more than 14 calendar days prior to the transaction, detailing the projected date, description, and number of shares. Exceptions exist for transactions made by spouses or dependents on behalf of others, as part of their employment compensation, or for dividend reinvestment. Violations of these restrictions carry significant consequences. A supervising ethics office will direct the payment of a fee, which is the greater of $2,000 or 10 percent of the transaction value, plus any net gain realized from the investment. Furthermore, any illegally purchased covered investment must be sold. These penalties cannot be paid using official congressional allowances or campaign funds; unpaid fees may result in referral to the Attorney General, and the Act's provisions take effect 180 days after enactment.
This legislation, titled the "Stop Insider Trading Act," aims to prevent potential conflicts of interest by imposing strict limitations on financial transactions by Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children. It specifically prohibits these covered individuals from purchasing covered investments , which include securities issued by publicly traded companies and related financial instruments, while serving in federal office. Certain investments, such as diversified funds, small business interests, and specific trusts, are excluded from these restrictions. The bill also mandates an advanced notice requirement for selling covered investments. A Member of Congress must publicly disclose an intent to sell, on behalf of themselves or their family, at least 7 but no more than 14 calendar days prior to the transaction, detailing the projected date, description, and number of shares. Exceptions exist for transactions made by spouses or dependents on behalf of others, as part of their employment compensation, or for dividend reinvestment. Violations of these restrictions carry significant consequences. A supervising ethics office will direct the payment of a fee, which is the greater of $2,000 or 10 percent of the transaction value, plus any net gain realized from the investment. Furthermore, any illegally purchased covered investment must be sold. These penalties cannot be paid using official congressional allowances or campaign funds; unpaid fees may result in referral to the Attorney General, and the Act's provisions take effect 180 days after enactment.