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Bill

SB 313

Prohibiting members of the legislature from engaging in transactions involving stocks and other securities during legislative sessions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ethan Corson

Kansas bill would ban legislators from trading stocks while legislature is in session to reduce conflicts of interest between personal investments and voting decisions.

Died in Committee
#ethics #governmental #legislature
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Bill Summary · SB 313

Legislative bill overview

SB 313 would prohibit Kansas legislators from buying or selling stocks and other securities while the legislature is in active session. The bill creates a restriction on personal financial transactions for elected officials during the period when they are actively legislating, with the intent to prevent potential conflicts of interest between personal financial gain and legislative decisions.

Why is this important

Lawmakers often vote on bills that could directly affect industries, companies, or market sectors in which they hold financial interests. This bill addresses concerns about insider trading advantages and the appearance of impropriety—situations where legislators might be tempted to vote based on how legislation will impact their personal portfolios rather than constituent interests. Similar restrictions exist at the federal level and in some other states.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: The bill doesn't clarify whether "during legislative sessions" means only sitting days, the entire calendar period the legislature meets, or includes interim committees and special sessions
  • Enforcement and monitoring: Questions remain about how violations would be detected and enforced, and whether penalties are specified for non-compliance
  • Scope concerns: The bill may exempt certain financial instruments (mutual funds, retirement accounts) or create loopholes for transactions through spouses or trusts, potentially limiting effectiveness

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

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