H.R. 6085: Stop Ballroom Bribery Act

This bill, titled the Stop Ballroom Bribery Act, aims to reduce potential corruption related to donations made for public projects associated with the President and Vice President of the United States. Here are the main points of what this legislation would accomplish:

Donation Restrictions for Public Projects

The bill outlines strict guidelines regarding donations for certain public properties and projects that are connected to the current President or Vice President. These properties can include locations like the White House and Number One Observatory Circle, as well as federal monuments honoring living or former Presidents or Vice Presidents.

Definitions of Key Terms

• Covered project: Refers to construction, enhancement, or events related to specific public properties designated for the President or Vice President.
• Donation: Encompasses gifts or contributions of value, including services.
• Foreign government: Defined as per federal regulations.

Approval Process for Donations

The acceptance or use of a donation for any covered project requires a formal approval process. This includes:

• Written determinations by the Director of the National Park Service and the Director of the Office of Government Ethics.
• Submission of the determination to relevant congressional committees.
• Publication of the determination in the Federal Register.

Restrictions on Donations

Prohibited Sources

Donations cannot be accepted from individuals involved in litigation with the government, those under investigation, or those seeking government contracts or grants. Additionally, political lobbyists cannot contribute.

Integrity and Conditions

Any donation must not be conditioned on receiving any benefit from the federal government, nor should it compromise the integrity of the executive branch. Solicitation of donations by the President or Vice President is also prohibited.

Post-Donation Restrictions

• Recognition of donors at the project site is not allowed.
• Donors cannot lobby any executive branch employees for two years post-donation.
• Donations cannot be used for personal benefit or that of family members of the President or Vice President.
• Any remaining donation funds cannot be used to benefit the President, Vice President, or their relatives directly.

Transparency Requirements

The bill enhances transparency regarding donations by requiring:

• Disclosure of meetings between donors and high-ranking officials associated with the President or Vice President, before and after donations.
• Quarterly reporting by the Director of the National Park Service detailing donations, including donor identities and meeting information.

Prohibition on Straw Donations

The bill makes it illegal for anyone to make or solicit donations in someone else's name, accept such donations, or assist others in doing so. Anonymous donations are also prohibited.

Enforcement and Penalties

The Office of Government Ethics is responsible for establishing regulations to enforce the bill. Violations may result in civil penalties up to $20,000 or more depending on the severity of the offense, as well as potential criminal charges. Actions can be taken by both state attorneys general and the federal government to address any violations.

Severability Clause

If any part of the bill is found unconstitutional, the rest remains in effect.

Relevant Companies

None found