TRUST in Congress Act would force blind trusts for lawmakers’ assets

What This Bill Does

The TRUST in Congress Act would require Members of Congress, and their spouses and dependent children, to place covered investments into qualified blind trusts within 180 days of enactment for current members, or within 90 days of taking office for future members. It also requires House and Senate members to certify compliance, with those certifications posted publicly, and it exempts a spouse or dependent child whose primary occupation pays through the covered investment.

This bill is aimed at reducing conflicts of interest by limiting lawmakers’ ability to directly manage investments in securities, commodities, futures, and similar interests, while excluding widely held funds and U.S. Treasury bills, notes, and bonds. For ordinary Americans, the main effect would be to increase transparency and potentially strengthen trust that congressional decisions are less influenced by personal financial holdings.

Who This Bill Affects

For the general public, this bill would not change day-to-day services or benefits, but it could affect how Congress handles conflicts of interest by requiring blind trusts and public certifications for covered investments held by Members, spouses, and dependent children.

Latest Status

January 14, 2025

Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.

Will It Pass?

8% estimated chance of becoming law

Pass percentages are estimates and may be inaccurate.