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Strict Limits on Gifts for Federal and Supreme Court Judges

This Act introduces strict limits and prohibitions on federal judges, including Supreme Court Justices, accepting gifts. The goal is to enhance transparency and public trust in the judiciary by ensuring that judicial decisions are free from potential conflicts of interest. Citizens benefit from greater assurance that judges are less susceptible to external influence from individuals or entities whose cases may come before the court.
Key points
Federal judges may not accept gifts valued at $50 or more, and the total annual value of gifts from a single source cannot exceed $100.
The ban applies to gifts from 'prohibited sources,' defined as persons or entities who have or are likely to have matters before the judicial officer.
Exceptions include gifts from relatives, honorary degrees, bank loans on generally available terms, and reimbursement for law-related seminars (limited to $2,000 unless a written waiver is obtained).
Violations can result in civil penalties up to $50,000 or criminal penalties (fines and up to one year in prison).
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_5268
Sponsor: Sen. Lujan, Ben Ray [D-NM]
Process start date: 2024-09-25
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

High Court Gift Ban Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_5268.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-09-25.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Federal judges may not accept gifts valued at $50 or more, and the total annual value of gifts from a single source cannot exceed $100.
  • The ban applies to gifts from 'prohibited sources,' defined as persons or entities who have or are likely to have matters before the judicial officer.
  • Exceptions include gifts from relatives, honorary degrees, bank loans on generally available terms, and reimbursement for law-related seminars (limited to $2,000 unless a written waiver is obtained).
  • Violations can result in civil penalties up to $50,000 or criminal penalties (fines and up to one year in prison).
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Lujan, Ben Ray [D-NM].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law