If you've been following congressional stock trading news, you've probably seen both "STOCK Act" and "PELOSI Act" mentioned — often interchangeably. They're not the same thing. Here's a clear breakdown of what each law does and why the distinction matters for investors.
The STOCK Act (2012) — What's Already Law
The Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge Act was signed into law in 2012. It requires all members of Congress, their spouses, and senior executive branch employees to publicly disclose stock trades worth over $1,000 within 45 days of the transaction.
Key facts about the current law:
- Does NOT ban congressional stock trading — only requires disclosure
- 45-day window means disclosures are always delayed
- Fine for late disclosure: $200 (widely considered insufficient)
- Covers stocks, bonds, options, and other securities
- All disclosures are public record — this is why trackers like ours exist
The PELOSI Act — Proposed Legislation
The PELOSI Act (Preventing Elected Leaders from Owning Securities and Investments Act) is proposed legislation that would go much further — banning members of Congress and their spouses from trading individual stocks entirely while in office. It was first introduced in 2021 and has been reintroduced multiple times.
The name is a reference to Nancy Pelosi, whose household portfolio's market-beating returns became a flashpoint in the public debate about congressional trading. Pelosi herself has since endorsed a trading ban.
The Stop Insider Trading Act (2026) — The Current Threat
The bill with the most momentum in 2026 is the Stop Insider Trading Act, introduced January 12, 2026. It's functionally similar to the PELOSI Act but with slightly different mechanics — including a 90-day advance public notice requirement before any sale, which is actually more transparent than anything in the current STOCK Act.
Why This Matters for You
Under the current STOCK Act, you can track congressional trades — with a 45-day delay. Under a full trading ban, that data stream ends. But even then, historical patterns, pre-ban divestment activity, and the 90-day pre-sale notices would remain highly trackable. Start tracking now at Congressional Trades.