WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HR 8140

Money Where Our Mouths Are Act

119th Congress Introduced by John James

Requires Congress members to invest personal funds in Treasury securities proportional to their votes increasing federal spending, aiming to create fiscal accountability through personal financial risk.

Introduced in House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 8140

Legislative bill overview

HR 8140, the "Money Where Our Mouths Are Act," requires members of Congress to invest their personal wealth in U.S. Treasury securities proportional to their votes on legislation that increases federal spending or debt. The bill aims to create financial accountability by making lawmakers personally bear the financial consequences of their fiscal decisions.

Why is this important

Congressional voting on spending and debt has significant long-term economic consequences for all Americans, including inflation, interest rates, and future tax burdens. Proponents argue this bill would incentivize fiscal responsibility by directly linking lawmakers' personal finances to their legislative choices, potentially reducing wasteful spending. Critics counter it could be impractical to implement and might infringe on congressional independence.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: Questions about whether Congress can constitutionally impose financial penalties on its members for legislative votes, and potential conflicts with the Speech or Debate Clause
  • Practical implementation: Defining what counts as "spending" or "debt-increasing" votes, determining proportional investment amounts, and handling complex multi-provision bills would be administratively complex
  • Wealth disparity effects: Wealthier members would have more liquid capital to invest, while less wealthy members might face disproportionate financial hardship, potentially creating perverse incentives

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.