The STOCK Act

Stopping Trading on Congressional Knowledge Act (STOCK Act)

• What is the STOCK Act?

  • • The STOCK Act (S.2038) is a law designed to combat insider trading and increase transparency among federal officials, including Congress members, their staff, and other government employees. 

    • Passed in 2012, the law ensures that those who govern our country adhere to the same standards as private citizens when it comes to trading stocks.

• Key Features of the STOCK Act:

  • • Transparency: Requires regular reporting of stock trades by Congress members and higher-level officials to prevent conflicts of interest.

    • Accountability: Establishes rules and guidelines that make it illegal for Congressional members to engage in insider trading.

    • Accessibility: All transaction reports are made public within 45 days, allowing journalists, researchers, and the general public to monitor these trades.

• Why Does It Matter to You?

  • • Fairness in the Market: Reduces the risk of market manipulation, creating a fairer trading environment for all investors.

    • Trust in Governance: Increases confidence in government decision-making by preventing personal financial gain from affecting public duties.

    • Informed Citizens: Empowers you to see the financial activities of elected officials, reinforcing transparency in government.

• How You Can Use This Information:

  • • Stay Informed: Check public records to see the trading activities of your representatives.

    • Hold Them Accountable: Use this information to question decisions or policies that might be influenced by personal financial interests.

    • Promote Integrity: Advocate for stronger laws on transparency and ethics in all levels of government.