S. 1850: Close the Revolving Door Act of 2025

This legislation, known as the Close the Revolving Door Act of 2025, aims to impose stricter regulations and controls on lobbying activities and the movement of individuals between government positions and the private sector. Here are the key provisions of the bill:

Lifetime Ban on Lobbying for Members of Congress

The bill proposes a lifetime ban on former Members of Congress—Senators and Representatives—from lobbying once they leave office. If they attempt to influence Congress on behalf of others, they could face penalties.

Longer Cooling-Off Period for Congressional Staff

The cooling-off period during which congressional staff cannot lobby has been extended from 1 year to 6 years after they leave their positions.

Improved Reporting of Lobbyists' Activities

The bill mandates the creation of a searchable, online database for lobbyist disclosures, which will be maintained by the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House of Representatives. This database, expected to be called lobbyists.gov, aims to provide transparency in lobbying activities.

Prohibition of Lobbyists Being Hired by Congress

Registered lobbyists or agents of foreign principals would not be allowed to be hired by Congress within 6 years after they have had substantial lobbying contact with a Member or committee. There is a provision for this prohibition to be waived under special circumstances by ethics committees in Congress.

Definition of Substantial Lobbying Contact

The bill clarifies what constitutes substantial lobbying contact, emphasizing the importance of direct interactions pertaining to legislative business or funding solicitations, excluding simple social contacts.

New Reporting Requirements for Lobbying Entities

Substantial lobbying entities—those that employ multiple registered lobbyists—must file annual reports detailing any former Members of Congress or senior legislative officials that work for them, including summaries of their past roles and experience.

Increased Oversight and Penalties

The United States Attorney for the District of Columbia will receive copies of filings related to lobbying employment to ensure compliance with reporting requirements. Additionally, the penalties for violating lobbying disclosure rules will increase from $200,000 to $500,000.

Relevant Companies

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