BLAST Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Scott, Rick [R-FL]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 13, 2026
Bottom line
The BLAST Act seeks to eliminate the 'revolving door' by permanently banning former Members and elected officers of Congress from engaging in any form of lobbying directed at Congress.
What it actually does
This bill permanently prohibits former Members and elected officers of Congress from registering as lobbyists or making any lobbying contacts with Congress after leaving office. It also amends the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 to explicitly include former Members engaged in various lobbying activities within the definition of a 'lobbyist,' ensuring a comprehensive ban. The prohibition applies to individuals who leave office on or after the bill's enactment date.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is essential for restoring public trust in government by preventing individuals from leveraging their public service and insider connections for private financial gain through lobbying. They contend it removes the incentive for members to consider future lobbying careers while legislating, thereby reducing undue influence.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that a permanent ban is overly broad, infringing on former members' rights to earn a living and potentially depriving Congress of valuable expertise from individuals with deep legislative and policy knowledge. Some may also contend that such a measure could deter qualified individuals from seeking public office.
The bill text is exceptionally concise and clear, allowing for a quick and straightforward understanding of its core provisions within minutes.
Section 2(a), amending 18 U.S.C. 207(e)(1)
Permanent Ban on Lobbying for Former Members and Elected Officers
This provision replaces the existing time-limited lobbying ban for former Senators, Members of the House of Representatives, and elected officers with a permanent prohibition. After leaving office, these individuals would be permanently barred from registering as a lobbyist or knowingly making any communication or appearance before any Member, officer, or employee of Congress with the intent to influence action on behalf of any other person (excluding the United States). Violations would be subject to penalties under 18 U.S.C. 216.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly addresses the 'revolving door' problem, where individuals transition from public service to private lobbying, potentially leveraging their connections and insider knowledge for personal gain. They contend it will restore public trust in government by removing the incentive for members to legislate with future lobbying careers in mind, ensuring public service is prioritized.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that a permanent ban is overly broad and punitive, infringing on the ability of former public servants to utilize their expertise in a new career. They may also contend that it could deter qualified individuals from seeking public office if they perceive their post-service career options to be unduly restricted, leading to a loss of institutional knowledge.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the goal of preventing undue influence and enhancing public trust against concerns about restricting individual career choices and potentially losing valuable institutional knowledge or expertise that former members could bring to policy debates, even from a lobbying capacity.
Section 2(b), amending 2 U.S.C. 1602(10)
Expanded Definition of 'Lobbyist' to Include Former Members
This section amends the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 to explicitly state that the definition of 'lobbyist' includes any former Member of Congress who is employed or retained for financial compensation for services that involve making one or more lobbying contacts, or engaging in lobbying activities that do not necessarily include direct lobbying contacts. This clarification aims to ensure that the permanent ban covers various forms of influence peddling, not just direct communication.
The amendments made by this section shall apply with respect to an individual who leaves office on or after the date of the enactment of this Act.
Section 2(d)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice to define the effective date and scope of a new law, avoiding retroactive application.
Case for: Supporters would argue this ensures fairness by not retroactively applying the ban to individuals who left office under different rules, while still implementing the policy for all future departures from Congress.
Case against: Critics might argue that this limits the immediate impact of the bill, as current prominent lobbyists who are former members would not be affected, potentially diminishing the perceived urgency or effectiveness of the reform.
Estimated impact: This clause ensures that the permanent lobbying ban only affects individuals who leave Congress after the bill becomes law, meaning current former members who are already lobbyists are exempt from its provisions.