WASHINGTON, D.C. – Two bipartisan senators have proposed a bill to ban individuals convicted of sex crimes from receiving pensions and retirement benefits from the federal budget.
Joni Ernst and Kirsten Gillibrand co-introduced the “No Taxpayer-Funded Pensions for Sex Criminals Act” following serious allegations that forced Eric Swalwell to resign last month.
Senator Ernst stated that tolerating serious sexual offenses is unacceptable, emphasizing that it is intolerable for offenders to continue receiving taxpayer money.
According to published reports, at least five women have accused Swalwell of harassment or abuse, including two who alleged sexual assault. Authorities in New York and California, along with the U.S. Department of Justice, are currently investigating.
Swalwell has denied any illegal conduct but admitted to a “lapse in judgment,” while ending his campaign for California governor and resigning from the House of Representatives.
Under current law, members of Congress who serve at least five years can receive a pension starting at age 62. Swalwell, who was elected in 2012, remains eligible for an estimated benefit of over $22,000 per year.
On average, lawmakers receive approximately $45,276 per year from this program, with total costs to the budget reaching about $38 million.
Senator Gillibrand argued that allowing convicted sex offenders to collect tax-funded pensions is “unacceptable,” and the new bill aims to ensure clear accountability.
At the same time, Representative Tony Gonzales also resigned to avoid the risk of expulsion after inappropriate text messages sent to staff were revealed.
Unlike Swalwell, Gonzales is not eligible for a pension because he has not met the required length of service.
