BLAST Act

S 88, the BLAST Act, bans former U.S. Senators, Representatives, and elected congressional officers from lobbying Congress after leaving office. It prohibits them from making communications or appearing before current members or staff to influence legislation on behalf of others (excluding the U.S. government), with violations punishable under federal law. The bill directly affects former lawmakers who might seek to lobby while using their prior congressional connections. This amendment to Title 18, U.S. Code, applies to those leaving office after the bill’s enactment date.