SERVE Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Wied, Tony [R-WI-8]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 21, 2026
Bottom line
The SERVE Act dramatically lengthens the 'revolving door' ban for former Members of Congress, aiming to curb perceived undue influence from lobbying and federal contracting.
What it actually does
This bill significantly expands post-employment restrictions for former Members of Congress by extending the prohibition on lobbying Members, officers, or employees of Congress from 1-2 years to 10 years. Additionally, it introduces a new 10-year ban on former Members accepting compensation as Federal contractors.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that these extended prohibitions are essential to enhance public trust in government, reduce the influence of special interests, and ensure that Members of Congress prioritize public service over potential future private sector gains. They believe a longer cooling-off period is necessary to truly sever the ties of influence.
Opponents contend
Opponents might contend that such extensive restrictions could discourage highly qualified individuals from seeking public office, as it significantly limits their ability to leverage their expertise and connections in post-service careers. They may also argue it infringes on former Members' economic liberty and could be overly broad in its scope.
The bill is very concise and clearly written, making it straightforward for any informed reader to understand its core provisions and implications quickly.
Section 2(a)
Extension of Lobbying Ban for Former Senators
This provision amends title 18, United States Code, specifically section 207(e)(1)(A), to increase the period during which former U.S. Senators are prohibited from lobbying Members, officers, or employees of Congress. The ban is extended from the current 2 years to a significantly longer period of 10 years after they leave office, aiming to reduce the 'revolving door' phenomenon.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that extending the lobbying ban for former Senators to 10 years is crucial for significantly reducing the potential for undue influence by individuals leveraging their past connections and insider knowledge. This measure is seen as a vital step towards restoring public trust in government ethics.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that an 8-year extension to the lobbying ban for former Senators is an excessive restriction that could unfairly limit the career options of individuals who have dedicated years to public service. They may argue it could deter qualified individuals from seeking office.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the public's desire to prevent undue influence and perceived corruption with concerns about limiting the ability of former elected officials to utilize their expertise in a post-service career.
Section 2(b)
Extension of Lobbying Ban for Former House Members and Officers
This section amends 18 U.S.C. 207(e)(1)(B)(i) to extend the period during which former U.S. Representatives and officers of the House are prohibited from lobbying Members, officers, or employees of Congress. The current 1-year ban is increased to 10 years after leaving office, aligning the restriction with that imposed on former Senators and aiming for similar ethical goals.
Section 3(a)
Prohibition on Federal Contracting for Former Members
This section establishes a new, comprehensive prohibition preventing any former Member of Congress (including Senators, Representatives, Delegates, and Resident Commissioners) from accepting compensation as a Federal contractor for a 10-year period after their departure from office. This significantly expands the scope of post-employment restrictions beyond traditional lobbying activities.
Section 2(c) and Section 3(c)
Effective Date of Prohibitions
This provision clarifies that the new, extended lobbying bans and the new federal contracting prohibition will only apply to individuals who leave office on or after the date the Act is enacted into law. This means that current Members of Congress who leave office before the bill becomes law will not be subject to these new, stricter post-employment rules.