TABOO Act

This legislation seeks to enhance transparency and accountability for individuals serving in federal positions that involve significant authority in foreign policy or national security, such as Special Envoys or Representatives. It addresses a perceived gap where existing ethics, financial disclosure, and conflict-of-interest requirements do not uniformly apply to these roles, especially those in unpaid or volunteer capacities. The bill defines these as covered positions , ensuring consistent standards regardless of title or compensation. The Act mandates that individuals in covered positions are subject to federal bribery, graft, and conflict-of-interest laws, and requires them to file financial disclosures. A key provision requires individuals to confirm they have no financial interests in foreign countries they work with, or to divest such interests into a qualified blind trust. They must also commit to avoiding new financial interests for one year after leaving the position, with agency heads certifying these confirmations to Congress. Additionally, federal agencies must submit quarterly lists to Congress detailing individuals in these roles and their duties. To enforce these provisions, the bill establishes penalties for non-compliance, including fines, imprisonment, loss of government support, and referral to the Department of Justice. Compliance is a continuous condition of service, with no possibility of waiver or delay, and congressional committees can delay nominations or recommend suspension for individuals found in violation.