Duval Times

Today, Senators Rick Scott and Dr. Rand Paul announced the reintroduction of the Royalty Transparency Act. This legislation aims to require federal employees and advisory committee members to disclose royalty payments, enhancing government accountability. Currently, there is no requirement for federal employees to report the source or amount of such payments related to their government work. This lack of transparency can prevent taxpayers from identifying conflicts of interest within the federal government.

Senator Rick Scott expressed his support for the act, stating that it would ensure "transparency and accountability" among federal employees. He highlighted concerns about individuals like Anthony Fauci and NIH employees receiving substantial royalty payments without reporting requirements, which raises questions about potential conflicts of interest.

Dr. Rand Paul emphasized that distrust in public health officials has reached a peak and suggested that transparency could help restore trust by ensuring public policy isn't influenced by personal gain.

Congressman Morgan Griffith is leading a companion bill in the House of Representatives. He noted that this act would contribute to greater transparency by mandating disclosure of royalties received by government officials as part of their service.