Committee hears resolution urging Congress to ban trading of individual stocks by members and immediate family

Senator Ken Bogner introduced Senate Joint Resolution 26 to the House Energy, Technology, and Federal Relations Committee, urging Congress to prohibit members of Congress and their immediate families from trading individual stocks. "Prohibiting members of Congress and their immediate families from trading individual stocks would strengthen ethical standards, restore public confidence in government, and affirm Congress's commitment to serve the American people above personal financial interests," Bogner said.

Committee members questioned practical aspects of the resolution. Representative Joy noted trades are publicly disclosed but not immediately, and the sponsor acknowledged a disclosure window of roughly 90 days. Representative Sharp raised concerns about spouses and separate households, asking whether the resolution would bar trading by a spouse with an independent career; the sponsor responded that public service requires sacrifices and left technical exceptions to Congress to sort out. Vice Chair Cordum asked whether the president should be included; the sponsor said bills typically focus on Congress and that expansion could be considered later.

Members expressed skepticism about whether Congress would act against its own financial interests, but several praised the resolution as a statement of principle. The committee recorded no formal opposition during the hearing and concluded the public testimony phase. The resolution will be reported out for further consideration.