Bill would criminalize the president trading on nonpublic government information

What does this do?

This bill would make it a federal crime for the president or vice president to sell or trade nonpublic information learned through official duties for financial gain. It broadly defines "nonpublic information" and also bans others from buying, selling, or trading such information, extending to businesses controlled by or significantly owned by the president, vice president, or their immediate family.

Who does it affect?

The president, vice president, their immediate family members, and connected businesses are directly affected. Anyone who knowingly buys or profits from this nonpublic information could also face consequences.

Why does it matter?

The bill aims to close a gap that could let top officials profit financially from confidential information unavailable to the public. Everyday Americans would not be affected unless they knowingly participate in such transactions.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Criminal fine up to 2x transaction value
• Prison term up to 5 years
• Civil penalty $250,000 or 3x gain