Full Breakdown
Legislation Introduced to Bar Pensions for Convicted Lawmakers
4/17/2026, 1:27:29 AM
New Legislative Proposal by Sen. Josh Hawley
Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) has introduced the "No Pensions for Congressional Predators Act," aimed at preventing lawmakers convicted of sexual abuse from receiving federal pensions. This initiative arises in the wake of serious allegations against former Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), who has been accused of sexual misconduct by multiple individuals, including a former staffer. Hawley stated, “Right now, a member of Congress can be convicted of sexual abuse and still receive a taxpayer-funded pension. That is unacceptable.” He emphasized the need for accountability, asserting that the government should only be responsible for providing a jail cell for such offenders.
Context of the Legislation
Currently, federal law mandates that lawmakers forfeit their pensions if convicted of certain felonies, including fraud, treason, bribery, and perjury. However, there is no provision that requires the forfeiture of pensions for felony sexual abuse convictions. Hawley’s bill seeks to rectify this inconsistency, ensuring that lawmakers guilty of sexual crimes do not benefit from taxpayer-funded pensions. This legislative move comes as Congress faces renewed scrutiny over allegations of sexual misconduct among its members, particularly following the resignations of Swalwell and former Representative Tony Gonzales (R-Texas).
Allegations Against Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales
Swalwell has been accused by five women of sexual misconduct, including allegations of drugging and raping a former staffer, Lonna Drewes. Although no charges have been filed against him, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has opened an investigation. Swalwell, who served in Congress for over a decade, would be eligible for a pension of approximately $22,000 annually starting at age 62. Similarly, Gonzales, who resigned after admitting to an affair with a former staffer who later died by suicide, could earn over $8,000 annually when he reaches retirement age, having met the minimum service requirement.
Criticism and Opposition
Representative Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) has called for Congress to revoke the pensions of both Swalwell and Gonzales, arguing that they should not be allowed to retain taxpayer-funded benefits after resigning due to serious allegations. Boebert expressed that these lawmakers should have faced expulsion rather than the option to resign with dignity. She stated, “We need to look into ways to censure... you can’t leave here with all your taxpayer-funded benefits after such shameful acts.”
Official Statements and Responses
Hawley’s proposal has garnered attention as Congress grapples with the implications of sexual misconduct among its members. He reiterated the importance of accountability, stating, “The only thing the government should be paying for, for these people, is a jail cell.” The bill aims to ensure that lawmakers who breach public trust through sexual crimes do not benefit financially from their positions.
What's Next
As the legislative process unfolds, the Senate Ethics Committee is also investigating allegations against other lawmakers, indicating a broader reckoning within Congress regarding misconduct. The outcome of Hawley’s proposal and its potential impact on federal pension policies remains to be seen as discussions continue.
