Bill
HR 3554
The Close the Revolving Door Act of 2025 extends the cooling-off period for former officials to two years, enhancing transparency and reducing conflicts of interest in lobbying.
The Close the Revolving Door Act of 2025 aims to address concerns regarding the movement of individuals between government positions and the private sector, particularly in industries that are heavily regulated by the government. The bill seeks to enhance transparency and accountability by imposing stricter regulations on post-employment activities of former government officials.
The bill includes several significant provisions designed to limit conflicts of interest and ensure that former government employees do not exploit their public service for private gain:
Extended Cooling-Off Period: The legislation proposes to extend the cooling-off period for certain government officials before they can engage in lobbying activities. This period would increase from one year to two years for senior officials, including those in the executive branch and members of Congress.
Disclosure Requirements: Former officials would be required to disclose their employment and lobbying activities for a specified period after leaving government service. This aims to provide transparency regarding their post-government career moves.
Prohibition on Certain Activities: The bill would prohibit former officials from engaging in lobbying activities related to any matter they were involved with during their government tenure, thereby reducing the potential for conflicts of interest.
Enforcement Mechanisms: The legislation outlines penalties for violations of these provisions, including fines and potential disqualification from future government employment.
The Close the Revolving Door Act of 2025 would primarily affect:
Former Government Officials: Individuals who have held senior positions in government would be subject to the new cooling-off periods and disclosure requirements.
Lobbying Firms and Corporations: Organizations that employ former officials for lobbying purposes would need to adjust their hiring practices and ensure compliance with the new regulations.
Government Agencies: Agencies would need to implement new procedures for monitoring compliance with the bill's provisions.
Introduced: The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 21, 2025.
Committee Referral: It has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.
Companion Bill: There is a companion bill, S 1850, in the Senate, which indicates a broader legislative interest in addressing the revolving door issue.
The Close the Revolving Door Act of 2025 represents a significant effort to reform the relationship between government service and private sector employment. By extending cooling-off periods and increasing transparency, the bill aims to mitigate potential conflicts of interest and restore public trust in government institutions. As it moves through the legislative process, its implications for former officials and lobbying practices will be closely monitored.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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