SWAG Act

The Stop Wasteful Advertising by the Government Act (SWAG Act) would ban federal agencies from using federal funds to purchase, acquire, or distribute promotional merchandise—commonly known as swag—or to create and use mascots for promotional purposes. This would apply across all federal agencies and entities that receive federal funding.

The bill includes three exceptions to these prohibitions: agencies could still use federal funds for swag and mascots if specifically authorized by law, if related to military recruitment and enlistment efforts, or for athletic team mascots at military academies. The practical effect would be to reduce federal spending on items like branded t-shirts, hats, mugs, and other giveaway items that agencies currently distribute to promote their programs or increase public awareness.

Currently at the introductory stage, this bill has not yet been assigned to a committee for consideration. Most introduced bills do not advance further in the legislative process.