Stop Lawmakers From Predicting Act
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
Bans Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children from trading on prediction markets about government policies, political outcomes, or insider events.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: ethics watchdogs, voters worried about congressional insider trading, honest lawmakers.
- Loses: lawmakers and family members currently profiting on platforms like Kalshi or Polymarket.
What it does
- Prohibits covered individuals from trading contracts tied to policies, government actions, or political outcomes.
- Fines violators $2,000 or 10% of trade value, whichever is greater, plus net gains.
- Blocks payment of fines using office allowances or campaign donations.
- Lets ethics offices refer resigned or retired Members to the Justice Department.
Why should I care?
Supporters say lawmakers shouldn't cash in on policies they help shape, since insider knowledge gives them an unfair edge. Critics argue the rules are vague, punish family members, and duplicate existing STOCK Act protections. An alternative: ban all congressional trading, not just prediction markets. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.