Rep. Bell Introduces Bipartisan Shell Company Abuse Act to Close Election Loopholes Exploited by Foreign Interests

Washington, D.C.— Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Jason Crow (D-Colo.), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Penn.) introduced the Shell Company Abuse Act, a bipartisan bill that would strengthen U.S. election security by cracking down on the use of anonymous shell companies to conceal illegal foreign contributions.

“Allowing foreign money to flow into our elections through anonymous shell companies is a threat to everything our democracy stands for,” said Rep. Bell. “Americans have the right to choose their leaders without interference from hidden foreign interests. This bill is about drawing a clear line — our elections belong to the people, and no one else.”

“Foreign nationals are already prohibited from donating to federal elections, but some individuals have attempted to skirt this law by creating shell companies to conceal these illegal activities,” said Rep. Bacon. “I’m pleased to join Rep. Bell on this legislation to keep integrity in our political process.”

“American elections should be decided by American voters, not foreign citizens or governments,” said Rep. Crow. “I’ve long fought against corruption and special interests, and that's why today I’m introducing bipartisan legislation to prevent foreign nationals and governments from covertly funneling money into our elections.”

Recent cases have exposed how foreign nationals have exploited American shell companies to funnel money into political campaigns, evading federal law and undermining the integrity of U.S. elections. The Shell Company Abuse Act directly targets this vulnerability by making it unlawful to establish or use a corporation, company, or other entity to conceal a campaign contribution or donation by a foreign national.

Violators of the bill’s provisions would face criminal penalties, including fines and up to five years imprisonment.

Read the full bill text here.

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