Bipartisan Restoring Faith in Government Act

HR 253, the Bipartisan Restoring Faith in Government Act, prohibits members of Congress, their spouses, and dependents from owning or trading most stocks, bonds, commodities, and derivatives. Covered individuals must divest such investments within 90 days of the bill’s enactment or when becoming covered, with exceptions for U.S. Treasury securities, state/local government bonds, and Thrift Savings Plan investments. The law requires divestment through sale or placement in a qualified blind trust (approved by the ethics office), mandates annual compliance certificates, and imposes civil penalties up to $50,000 for violations. It directly affects congressional staff and family members with financial holdings, aiming to prevent conflicts of interest in legislative decision-making.