Dingell, Malliotakis Introduce Bipartisan Legislation Stripping Taxpayer-Funded Pensions from Congressmembers Convicted of Sexual Abuse

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) introduced the bipartisan End Government Pension for Sexual Abusers Act, which would revoke federal retirement benefits for current or former Members of Congress convicted of serious sexual offenses, including sexual assault, rape, child sex trafficking, sexual exploitation of minors, and related crimes.

"Public service is a privilege, and anyone convicted of these horrific crimes should not receive taxpayer-funded pensions. Congress must hold itself to the same standards of accountability we expect everywhere else. Congresswoman Malliotakis and I will keep working to ensure survivors get the justice they deserve," said Congresswoman Dingell.

"Members of Congress are elected to serve the public and must be held to the highest standard," said Congresswoman Malliotakis. "Anyone convicted of sexual abuse, exploitation, or trafficking should not be rewarded with a taxpayer-funded pension. I join Rep. Debbie Dingell in this bipartisan effort to ensure those benefits are stripped from convicted offenders and make sure they go to the victims who deserve justice."

In recent months, multiple Members of Congress have resigned following serious allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund retirement benefits for elected officials who are convicted of these horrific crimes. Public service is a privilege, not an entitlement and Members of Congress are entrusted with serving the public and must hold themselves to the highest ethical and moral standards. Those who commit acts of sexual abuse, exploitation, or trafficking should not continue receiving federal taxpayer-funded benefits.

The End Government Pension for Sexual Abusers Act would deny federal retirement benefits to Members of Congress or former members convicted of sexual offenses, including:

• Transfer or production of obscene material to minors.

• Sex trafficking of children.

• Sexual abuse, including sexual assault or rape.

• Sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor.

• Sexual abuse resulting in death.

The legislation also applies to current or former Members convicted of similar crimes in foreign countries, holding them to the same standard. Any pension benefits stripped from convicted offenders would instead be awarded to the victims, helping provide support and justice to those harmed.