Bill · H.R. 4036· House(119-HR-4036)
No Shorting America Act
- Introduced
- 6/17/2025
- Last activity
- 6/17/2025 — Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.
- Sponsored by
- Thomas Kean
- Cosponsors
- - 0 - 1
- Introduced
- In Committee
What this bill would do
The "No Shorting America Act" aims to amend title 5 of the United States Code. It seeks to prohibit Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependents from engaging in short sales of certain financial instruments. These instruments include securities, security futures, commodities, or similar economic interests like derivatives. The prohibition applies to covered financial instruments issued by any business entity listed on a national stock exchange. Additionally, the bill establishes rules for proof of compliance and enforcement through the supervising ethics office and the Attorney General.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Tax Accountability: Individuals who violate the short sale prohibition cannot deduct losses from their income tax, which ensures that illegal trading activity does not result in a tax benefit. (Section 13152(b))
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Transparency and Oversight: The bill requires Members of Congress to submit a pledge of compliance and provide necessary information to the supervising ethics office, which helps ensure they are following the law. (Section 13152(c)(1))
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Public Access to Compliance Records: The supervising ethics office is required to publish certificates of compliance on a publicly accessible website, allowing the public to verify that officials are adhering to the rules. (Section 13152(c)(3))
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Enforcement and Penalties: The bill provides a mechanism for the Attorney General to bring civil actions and assess penalties of up to $50,000 against those who knowingly and willfully violate the rules, providing a deterrent against misconduct. (Section 13153(b)(1))
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Protection of Public Funds: The act prevents officials from using official office expense accounts or political committee funds to pay for civil penalties resulting from these violations. (Section 13153(b)(2))
Potential Negative Impacts for People
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Financial Restrictions on Families: The prohibition extends beyond the Member of Congress to include their spouses and dependents, which restricts the financial activities of their family members. (Section 13151(2))
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Potential Civil Penalties: Covered individuals who knowingly and willfully fail to comply with the law could face civil penalties of up to $50,000 through actions brought by the Attorney General. (Section 13153(b)(1))
- 6/17/2025
- Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- Introduced in House
Angie CraigDemocrat · Minnesota