The TABOO Act imposes uniform ethics, financial disclosure, and conflict-of-interest requirements on individuals serving in special envoy, special representative, special coordinator, and similar positions across the federal government, regardless of whether they are paid, unpaid, or volunteer workers. The bill aims to close loopholes that currently allow some diplomats and negotiators to avoid standard oversight rules. Covered positions include anyone directing negotiations with foreign countries or international organizations or exercising significant authority in foreign policy or national security contexts. Individuals in these roles must disclose financial interests in covered countries, divest or place such interests in blind trusts within 60 days, and submit written confirmation of compliance to their agency heads, who must then report to Congress. Agency heads must also submit quarterly lists of all individuals in covered positions to the President and Congress, and those who fail to comply face penalties ranging from fines and imprisonment to loss of government support and suspension from their duties. The requirements take effect 180 days after enactment, with current officeholders given an additional 60 days to comply.
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