New one-year ban proposed for DOJ attorneys who join former clients
In committeeH.R. 8861Latest action
Sponsor: Mary Gay Scanlon · Representative · PA
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Official title: Department of Justice Integrity Act of 2026
119th Congress
Topics: Crime & justice
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 8861 would bar DOJ attorneys from working for a business they prosecuted or made a deal with for one year after leaving government.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 8861 adds a one-year waiting period preventing former Department of Justice attorneys from working for a business in the same legal matter they handled while in government. The restriction applies only when the attorney was directly and substantially involved in prosecuting that business or negotiating a special legal agreement with it. Violating this rule could result in criminal penalties.
Who does it affect?
The rule most directly affects former federal prosecutors and DOJ attorneys who move into private legal practice. Large companies facing federal prosecution are also affected, as the bill limits which attorneys they can hire for their defense.
Why does it matter?
Former government attorneys moving quickly to represent the same businesses they once prosecuted raises concern about conflicts of interest, which supporters of such rules cite as a reason for the restriction. Critics argue these rules can limit career opportunities for government lawyers.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedMay 15, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · May 15, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.