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Congress Approves Bill to Release Epstein Files, Sends to President

2025-11-19

The BareStory

A bill that would compel the release of federal files concerning Jeffrey Epstein has passed both chambers of Congress and is now awaiting action from President Donald Trump. The House of Representatives passed the measure on Tuesday, and the Senate approved it by unanimous consent on Wednesday.

If signed into law, the legislation would mandate the disclosure of federal records related to Epstein, his convicted accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, and other connected individuals. The bill includes provisions to shield the identities of victims from public release. President Trump has stated that he will sign the legislation. A senior White House official reportedly affirmed the president intends to sign the bill when it reaches his desk.

The bill’s passage comes as the Department of Justice pursues a new probe related to the files. Last week, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced a renewed investigation, and on Wednesday, she said it was prompted by "new information." This follows a July department memo that reportedly found no basis for new charges or further investigation based on a review of the files. Bondi stated the administration has already released over 33,000 documents and will continue to follow the law.

The legislative effort reportedly caused divisions among some Republicans. House Speaker Mike Johnson said he was "surprised and disappointed" that the Senate passed the bill without amendments, which he believed had "serious flaws," but he stated that he does not anticipate a presidential veto. Upon the news of the Senate's approval, a group of Epstein survivors at a vigil on Capitol Hill reacted with cheers, according to one summary.

Left Perspective

  • The bill has gained overwhelming legislative and executive support.
  • The Justice Department is pursuing a renewed investigation.
  • The bill's passage has been celebrated by survivors.

Right Perspective

  • High-level concerns were raised about flaws in the bill's text.
  • A prior review of the files found no basis for further action.
  • The administration has already engaged in releasing documents.

How it may affect me

As a U.S. reader:

• The public can expect access to previously unreleased federal files concerning Jeffrey Epstein and his associates, as the bill mandates their disclosure.

• A new Department of Justice probe into the files has been launched, but its potential to result in new criminal charges is unclear, given a prior review found none.

• While the files will be released, the legislation includes specific provisions that will shield the identities of victims from being made public.

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