Business for America Statement on Introduction of the Restore Trust in Congress Act

Today, a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced the Restore Trust in Congress Act, comprehensive legislation that would prohibit members of Congress and their families from trading or owning individual stocks while in office. The legislation is the culmination of months of negotiations between House leaders. It marks a significant step toward resolving one of the most visible conflicts of interest in American politics.

Americans overwhelmingly believe members of Congress should not be able to profit from privileged access to information or their ability to shape policy. Businesses, too, depend on trust, transparency, and fair rules to ensure healthy markets. The status quo—where lawmakers act as both regulators and investors—undermines that trust.

“Passing a strong stock trading ban isn’t just about ethics in government; it’s about restoring confidence in both Congress and the markets,” said Sarah Bonk, founder and CEO of Business for America. “We urge Congress to move quickly on this bipartisan bill and prove that public service is about serving the people, not personal portfolios.”

Business for America applauds Representatives Tim Burchett (R-TN), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Chip Roy (R-TX), and their colleagues for coming together across party lines on this critical reform. We encourage members of both chambers to support the bill and deliver a long-overdue win for accountability, transparency, and fair markets.