US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US Federal Senate Bill SR219

Introduced
5/13/25  

Caption

A resolution directing the Senate Legal Counsel to bring a civil action in the name of the United States Senate to enforce the Foreign Emoluments Clause contained in clause 8 of section 9 of article I of the Constitution of the United States.

Impact

The primary impact of SR219, if enacted, would reinforce the legal framework surrounding the Foreign Emoluments Clause, emphasizing the necessity for Presidential compliance with this constitutional provision. By pushing for a civil lawsuit, the Senate aims to assert its role in checking executive power and upholding the principle that foreign influence over U.S. political figures must be controlled and transparent, thereby safeguarding the public trust in governmental operations.

Summary

SR219 is a resolution directing the Senate Legal Counsel to initiate a civil action on behalf of the United States Senate to enforce the Foreign Emoluments Clause of the U.S. Constitution. This clause prohibits the President from accepting any gifts, offices, or titles from foreign states without Congressional consent, aimed at preventing potential corrupt influences on U.S. government officials. The resolution highlights concerns regarding President Donald J. Trump purportedly accepting benefits from foreign entities, raising alarms over conflicts of interest and the integrity of public office.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding SR219, particularly regarding interpretations of the Foreign Emoluments Clause and the implications of initiating legal action against a sitting President. Supporters argue that the resolution is crucial for maintaining ethical standards within the government, while opponents may view it as a politically motivated attack on President Trump. The discussions surrounding the bill reflect broader concerns regarding accountability and the extent of executive power in America, suggesting a polarized legislative atmosphere.

Final_thoughts

Overall, SR219 serves as a significant legislative measure reflecting the Senate's commitment to ensure adherence to constitutional norms regarding foreign emoluments. As it advances, the measure's proceedings will likely reignite debates on presidential ethics, legislative oversight, and the delicate balance of power within the U.S. government.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US SR242

A resolution condemning the private business agreements of President Donald J. Trump with foreign governments for posing unacceptable conflicts of interest, affirming such agreements violate the Foreign Emoluments Clause of the Constitution of the United States, and demanding the transfer of any proceeds from such agreements to the United States Government.

US HR1185

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Department of Justice must comply with the Domestic Emoluments Clause of the Constitution by refusing to administratively settle the billions of dollars in legal claims filed against the United States by President Donald Trump.

US SR244

A resolution affirming that the underlying purpose of the Foreign Emoluments Clause renders the acceptance and transfer of a plane from the government of Qatar, without the explicit consent of Congress, an illegal emolument, withholding the consent of the Senate to the acceptance and transfer of plane from the government of Qatar, and demanding the transfer of any plane received by President Donald J. Trump or entities under his control from the government of Qatar to the permanent control of the United States Government.

US HR1186

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that President Donald Trump, his Special Envoy Steven Witkoff, and all Federal officials must comply with the Foreign Emoluments Clause of the Constitution by immediately turning over to the Department of the Treasury any payments received from the United Arab Emirates or any other foreign state and divest from all business interests linked to foreign governments.

US HCR1002

Concurrent resolution; revocation of previous actions related to Article V of the United States Constitution; communications; distribution.

US HCR1002

Concurrent resolution; revocation of previous actions related to Article V of the United States Constitution; communications; distribution.

US HR0075

A resolution to urge the United States House of Representatives to introduce and adopt articles of impeachment against President Donald J. Trump for the high crimes of repeatedly undermining the Constitution of the United States.

US H3888

Resolutions calling on Article V of the United States Constitution for the convening of a convention of the states

US HCR38

Directing the President pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution to remove United States Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

US HR410

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that President Trump must comply with the Foreign Emoluments Clause, by submitting all plans for his jumbo jet gift from Qatar immediately to Congress.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.