U.S. Lawmakers Propose Bill to Ban Congress from Stock Trading

The Restore Trust in Congress Act aims to restore public faith in government.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:00pm

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U.S. lawmakers are considering a new bill called the Restore Trust in Congress Act, which would prohibit members of Congress from trading individual stocks. The proposed legislation combines previous attempts to ban congressional leaders from engaging in stock trading, which has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and insider trading.

Why it matters

The bill is part of a broader effort to address public distrust in government and perceived self-dealing by elected officials. Proponents argue that banning congressional stock trading would help restore faith in the integrity of the political system and ensure that lawmakers are focused on serving the public interest rather than their own financial gain.

The details

The Restore Trust in Congress Act would prohibit members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children from trading individual stocks. Lawmakers would be required to either divest their holdings or place them in a blind trust. Violations of the proposed law could result in fines or even criminal penalties.

  • The Restore Trust in Congress Act is currently being considered by U.S. lawmakers.

The players

U.S. Congress

The legislative branch of the federal government, responsible for passing laws and overseeing the executive branch.

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What’s next

If passed, the Restore Trust in Congress Act would need to be signed into law by the President before taking effect.

The takeaway

The proposed ban on congressional stock trading is part of a broader effort to address concerns about conflicts of interest and restore public faith in the integrity of the political system. The success of the bill will depend on the ability of lawmakers to overcome partisan divides and reach a consensus on this issue.