Bowling Green Today

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Stakeholders and organizations are praising U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) for moving forward with his legislation, S. 3664 the Royalty Transparency Act of 2024, which has successfully advanced from committee on a bipartisan vote of 12-0.

The bill aims to enhance transparency on royalty payments made to Executive Branch officials and make the financial disclosure forms public for federal advisory committee members such as the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. This move is seen as crucial in shedding light on potential conflicts of interest and promoting accountability within the federal government.

Adam Andrzejewski, CEO of Open the Books, emphasized the importance of Dr. Paul’s legislation in unveiling financial transactions within the government, stating, “Dr. Paul’s legislation is vital to open the books on the culture of secrecy so the American people can finally follow the money.”

George Landrith, President of Frontiers of Freedom Foundation, highlighted the significance of the Royalty Transparency Act in addressing oversight gaps and enhancing public trust in government decision-making, saying, "This significant legislation, extending disclosure requirements to advisory committee members, broadens transparency and accountability, marking a vital advancement towards a government that operates with the utmost integrity and openness."

Phil Kerpen, President of American Commitment and Committee to Unleash Prosperity, stressed the necessity for transparency regarding government employees' earnings, stating, "Secret royalty payments violate this principle of transparency and conceal potential corruption. Congress should pass Senator Rand Paul’s Royalty Act to solve this problem."

Wade Miller, Executive Director of Citizens for Renewing America, expressed support for the bill as a means to provide oversight over federal employees’ financial transactions and hold accountable those who may be self-enriching through their positions in government.

The Royalty Transparency Act of 2024 is seen as a significant step towards promoting transparency and integrity within the federal government, ensuring that taxpayers can effectively monitor financial dealings and potential conflicts of interest among government officials and advisory committee members.