This bill would stop federal agencies from using taxpayer money on “swag” and promotional mascots. Swag means free items given out just to advertise a government agency or program, like pens, mugs, or T‑shirts. Agencies also could not make or use mascots to promote themselves. Agencies would have to report each year how much they spend on public relations and advertising, and they may include what results they got for that spending. The Office of Management and Budget must set rules to carry this out within 180 days after the law takes effect . Swag is described as products handed out at no cost with the sole purpose of advertising or promoting an agency or program .

There are a few exceptions. These rules do not apply if another law clearly allows it, for recruiting people to join the Armed Forces or to take federal jobs, or for certain Census items. Mascots can still be used for military recruiting or for military academy sports teams, and certain mascots already declared U.S. property by law are allowed .

• Who is affected: Federal agencies and the public they market to
• What changes: No federal funds for swag or promotional mascots; annual reporting of PR and ad spending
• Key exceptions: Armed Forces and federal job recruiting, Census items, and specific military-related mascots; otherwise only if a law expressly allows it
• When: Rules must be issued within 180 days after enactment