H.R. 4461: To amend section 2112 of title 44, United States Code, to appropriately limit donations to Presidential Libraries and Centers.

The bill amends existing laws regarding donations to Presidential Libraries and Centers, introducing several restrictions and requirements aimed at increasing transparency and limiting influence from certain entities. Key provisions of the bill include:

Definition of Donations

The bill defines "donation" broadly to include any form of monetary gift, subscription, loan, or anything of value given directly or indirectly to a Presidential Library or Center. It excludes voluntary services that are provided without compensation.

Restrictions on Donations

• Eligibility of Donors: Donations from individuals are restricted if the individual for whom the library is established is currently serving as President or has been elected. Additionally, donations cannot be accepted from specific groups, such as registered lobbyists, foreign nationals, federal contractors, and others.
• Cooling Off Period: There is a two-year period after a President leaves office during which donations from certain groups, such as lobbyists and agents of foreign interests, are also restricted.
• Conversion of Donations: It is unlawful to convert any donations intended for a Presidential Library for personal use or benefit.

Aggregate Donation Limits

The bill establishes a limit of $10,000 on total donations to a Presidential Library from any individual during a specified time frame, which starts when the individual is elected President and continues until one year after they leave office. This limit will be adjusted annually for inflation based on the cumulative percentage increase determined under federal election laws.

Reporting Requirements

• Presidential Libraries must submit quarterly reports disclosing any donations over $200 from any individuals made during a specified coverage period. This includes details such as the amount, date, and information about the donor.
• Reports must be made publicly available on the National Archives and Records Administration website within a month of their submission.

Enforcement Mechanisms

The bill empowers the Attorney General to pursue civil and criminal actions against individuals who violate these new provisions. Penalties include fines, potential prison time for willful violations, and orders to return any improper donations.

Regulations

The bill mandates that the Archivist develop regulations to effectively implement these new provisions, ensuring compliance and enforcement of the law.

Relevant Companies

None found