PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Congressional Research Service
Version 55 · Passed Senate · Apr 21, 2026
Conflict-free Leaving Employment and Activity Restrictions Path Act or the CLEAR Path Act
This bill bans former presidential appointees in the executive branch from knowingly representing, aiding, or advising a foreign country of concern (e.g., China, Iran, North Korea, or Russia) with the intent to influence a decision of U.S. government officials.
Under the bill, the ban applies to former presidential appointees who served (1) as head or deputy head of an executive branch department or agency, or (2) in any other Senate-confirmed position in an executive branch department or agency.
The ban applies to those who are appointed to their positions on or after the date of this bill's enactment. The ban expires five years after the date of this bill's enactment.
The bill also establishes a process that authorizes the Department of State to propose and Congress to enact changes to the list of foreign countries of concern.
People & committees
Sen. Cornyn, John [R-TX] · R–TX
Legislative record
A procedural vote is different from passage. Passage in one chamber does not establish enactment. Explore the glossary.
Held at the desk.
Received in the House.
Message on Senate action sent to the House.
Passed Senate with an amendment by Voice Vote. (consideration: CR S1854; text of amendment in the nature of a substitute: CR S1854-1855)
Passed/agreed to in Senate: Passed Senate with an amendment by Voice Vote.
Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 305.
Committee on the Judiciary. Reported by Senator Grassley with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
Committee on the Judiciary. Reported by Senator Grassley with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
Committee on the Judiciary. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
Introduced in Senate
Primary sources
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Source last updated: Sep 29, 2026. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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Analyze S.2132 as objectively as possible. Explain its main provisions, who would be affected, possible benefits and harms, implementation, exceptions, and uncertainties. Present the strongest arguments for and against it, and identify evidence needed to assess its public impact.
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