#CongressTradingBan
There's a growing movement to ban congressional stock trading, with several lawmakers and advocacy groups pushing for reform. Here's what's happening:
- *Bipartisan Support*: Representatives Chip Roy (R-TX) and Seth Magaziner (D-RI) have reintroduced the TRUST in Congress Act, which aims to ban members of Congress and their families from engaging in insider trading. The bill has garnered support from various advocacy groups, including the Project on Government Oversight and Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington.
- *Key Provisions*: The TRUST in Congress Act would require lawmakers to place certain investment assets into a qualified blind trust while serving in office. This means they'd have to divest from individual stocks and other covered investments, ensuring they don't leverage their power for personal gain.
- *Rationale*: Proponents argue that banning congressional stock trading would help restore public trust in government. They believe lawmakers should focus on serving the American people, not their own stock portfolios.
- *Notable Backers*: Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) have also called for restrictions on stock trading among federal policymakers, citing concerns about insider trading and market manipulation.
- *Current Status*: While there's momentum behind the bill, its progress remains to be seen. The legislation would need to pass through both the House and Senate before becoming law.
Some key advocacy groups supporting the TRUST in Congress Act include;
- *Project on Government Oversight (POGO)*
- *National Taxpayers Union*
- *Public Citizen*
- *Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington*
- *Americans for Prosperity*