Rep. Lauren Boebert, a Republican from Colorado, is preparing legislation aimed at stripping congressional pensions from former lawmakers accused or convicted of serious misconduct, following the resignation of former Rep. Eric Swalwell.

Swalwell, a Democrat from California, stepped down from Congress amid multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. He has denied wrongdoing and has not been criminally charged. Despite his resignation, he remains eligible under current law to receive a federal pension, estimated at roughly $22,000 annually upon reaching retirement age.

Boebert said she is working on legislation that would block pensions for members of Congress found guilty of felony offenses or violations tied to their conduct in office. The proposal would also address cases involving breaches of House ethics rules, including inappropriate relationships with staff.

In public statements, Boebert has argued that taxpayer-funded benefits should not be extended to officials who leave office under serious ethical scrutiny. She has also suggested that pension funds in such cases could be redirected, including toward alleged victims.

Current federal law allows members of Congress to qualify for pensions after at least five years of service. Existing statutes provide for forfeiture of benefits only in limited circumstances, typically involving specific criminal convictions related to official duties.

The effort has drawn some bipartisan interest, with a small number of lawmakers indicating openness to reviewing pension eligibility standards in cases involving substantiated misconduct. However, no formal legislation has yet been introduced, and changes would require congressional approval.

The proposal reflects broader debate in Washington over accountability standards for elected officials and whether resignation before formal discipline should shield members from long-term financial consequences funded by taxpayers.