Washington, D.C. - Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, has signed on as an original co-sponsor to the Stop Insider Trading Act. This legislation, which was introduced on Monday, January 12th, prohibits members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children from purchasing securities issued by publicly traded companies. The bill further requires that, in order to sellsecurities, members must provide public notice 7-14 days prior. Violators will incur a minimum fine of $2,000 or 10% of the transaction value (whichever is greater).

"Members of Congress are sent to Washington to serve their constituents, not themselves," said Congressman Ryan Mackenzie."The American people are tired of watching their representatives abuse their offices for profit. That's why the Stop Insider Trading Actcracks down on these practices - establishing a clear ban on the purchase of stocks by members of Congress."

Congressman Mackenzie has been a longstanding proponent of reining in congressional stock trading. Near the start of his term, Congressman Mackenzie co-sponsoredthe Transparent Representation Upholding Service and Trust (TRUST) in Congress Act. These actions follow through on the Congressman's past commitment to take action against congressional stock trading.

Text of the legislation is available here.

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