In Senate Committee·Last action 368 days ago

Members of Congress would lose control of most stock trades while in office

Officially: Ban Congressional Stock Trading Act

Members of Congress and their families could not keep control of most stocks and similar investments while the member serves. They would have to sell them or put them in a blind trust, and missed deadlines could lead to repeated fines.

Where it stands

Sitting in Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs

No vote scheduled. Constituent contact is what moves bills out of committee.

What this bill actually does

The bill treats many financial interests as covered investments. This includes most stocks, commodities, futures, options, warrants, and similar assets, even when held through some funds, non-blind trusts, benefit plans, or deferred pay.
Some investments would stay allowed outside a blind trust. These include broad mutual funds and exchange-traded funds, U.S. Treasury securities, certain job pay, and government retirement plan investments.
Current members would have 30 days after the bill becomes law to file a certification. They must say whether they, their spouses, or dependent children hold covered investments and whether they will sell them or use blind trusts.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill is sitting in committee with no scheduled vote — which means a small number of constituent messages can decide whether it moves forward or quietly dies.

Where your representatives stand

Enter your ZIP to see how your senators and member of Congress have voted, sponsored, or spoken on this bill.

The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Prevents Insider Trading: Supporters say it stops Members of Congress from using secret information to make money on the stock market.
Restores Public Trust: Many people feel that this bill will help rebuild trust in the government by showing that lawmakers are not putting their financial interests first.
Levels the Playing Field: It ensures that regular investors aren't at a disadvantage compared to those with insider knowledge.

✕Arguments against

Limits Qualified Candidates: Critics argue that it might discourage talented people, like business owners, from running for office if they have to sell their stocks.
Implementation Burdens: The cost and effort required to set up a blind trust might be too high for some Members of Congress.
Enforcement Challenges: There are concerns about how effectively the rules can be enforced, as they rely on self-reporting.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in Senate

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Senate Committee

Under Senate committee consideration

Latest: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. (5/22/2025)

MAY 22

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Senate Floor Vote

Voted on by Senate

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Passed Senate

Approved by Senate

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House Review

Sent to House for consideration

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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Members of Congress would lose control of most stock trades while in office

Where your representatives stand

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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