SWAG Act

The Stop Wasteful Advertising by the Government Act (SWAG Act) would ban federal agencies from using federal funds to purchase, distribute, or manufacture promotional merchandise—commonly known as swag—or to create and use mascots for promotional purposes. This would apply across all federal agencies and entities. The bill would prevent taxpayer dollars from being spent on items like branded t-shirts, hats, mugs, and other giveaways intended to advertise or promote government agencies, organizations, or programs.

The bill includes three exceptions to these prohibitions. Federal agencies could still use funds for promotional items or mascots if they have specific authorization in existing law, if the items are related to military recruitment and enlistment efforts, or if the mascots are used by military academy athletic teams. Currently in committee, if enacted, this bill would restrict how federal agencies spend public funds on promotional merchandise and branded mascots.