U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick on Monday introduced H.R.9084, the STOP the SWAMP Act, legislation aimed at harshening penalties on federal employees who refuse to answer or lie to Congress.
Co-sponsored by U.S. Reps. Troy Nehls, R-TX, and Derrick Van Orden, R-WI, the bill establishes clear – and harsh – consequences for Federal employees who are convicted of perjury or refuse to answer questions when called before congressional investigations. Violators would see their cases referred to the Department of Justice and be barred from Federal employment going forward.
In a statement regarding the bill, Congressman McCormick said, “We are the people’s house. As such, we have a crucial duty to oversee the executive branch and hold the bureaucracy accountable for their actions. It is imperative that we maintain transparency and accountability within our government. Individuals who refuse to cooperate with congressional inquiries or commit perjury undermine the trust of the American people and must face consequences for their actions. This bill will ensure that federal employees are held to the highest standards of honesty and integrity.”
You can see McCormick’s full speech on the House floor below:
