PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.
Congressional Research Service
Version 00 · Introduced in House · May 10, 1996
Revolving Door Act of 1996 - Modifies Federal criminal code provisions restricting the activities of former officers, employees, and elected officials of the executive and legislative branches relating to foreign entities. Replaces a ban for one year after leaving office on representing, aiding, or advising a foreign entity before an officer or employee of any U.S. department or agency with intent to influence a decision of such officer in carrying out official duties with: (1) a ten-year restriction on the President, certain senior executive branch personnel, and Members of Congress and officers and employees of the legislative branch knowingly acting as an agent or attorney for, or otherwise representing or advising for compensation (representing), a foreign government or political party if the representation relates directly to a matter in which the United States is a party or has a direct and substantial interest; and (2) a five-year restriction on representing specified foreign persons or organizations if the representation relates directly to a matter in which the United States is a party or has a direct and substantial interest. Imposes penalties upon: (1) former executive branch officers who, within one year after termination of Federal service or employment, knowingly make, with intent to influence, any communication to or appearance before a Member or legislative branch officer or employee on behalf of any person other than the United States or the District of Columbia; and (2) former Members and former employees of the House of Representatives or Senate whose salaries exceeded 120 percent of the minimum rate of basic pay for GS-15 of the General Schedule who, within one year after termination of service, knowingly make such a communication to or appearance before any executive branch officer. Bars such an officer, employee, or Member who is convicted of a felony from making any communication to or appearance before any employee of the House or Senate or any executive branch officer for compensation. Amends the Foreign Agents Registration Act to: (1) exempt from registration requirements specified agents or entities engaged in lobbying activities that have registered under the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995; and (2) add a civil penalty of up to $50,000 for each violation (with respect to false statements and willful omissions) knowingly committed.
People & committees
Rep. Canady, Charles T. [R-FL-12] · R–FL
Legislative record
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Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.
Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.
Referred to the Subcommittee on the Constitution.
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Primary sources
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Source last updated: Aug 21, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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