GARD Act

HR 2291, the GARD Act, updates rules for federal employees reporting foreign gifts and decorations. It requires federal employees and political candidates running for President, Vice President, or Congress to disclose gifts from foreign governments or entities outside the U.S., including those from "countries of concern" designated by the State Department. Key changes include a new May 15 filing deadline, mandatory details on gift value and disposition (like whether items were kept, sold, or transferred to the government), and a $200 late fee for missed deadlines. Agencies must also make these reports publicly accessible online within 120 days of the bill’s enactment, similar to financial disclosure reports.