The US House of Representatives has passed a bill to force the public release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. The near-unanimous vote sends the legislation to the Senate for final approval. This move marks a significant step toward unveiling documents related to the convicted sex offender’s network.
The vote count was 427-1. It represents a major victory for transparency advocates and survivors of Epstein’s abuse. According to Reuters, the bill compels the Department of Justice to disclose its case files.
Bipartisan Support Overcomes Initial Political Hurdles
The bill’s journey to the House floor was fraught with political challenges. A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced a petition for this legislation back in July. For months, its passage was considered a long shot.
Opposition initially came from high-ranking figures. President Trump had previously dismissed discussions about Epstein as a “hoax.” House Speaker Mike Johnson also criticized the effort as a political exercise.
However, mounting public pressure changed the political calculus. Trump reversed his position and endorsed the bill. Johnson, despite his reservations, voted in favor, acknowledging the demand for transparency.
Legislation Demands Full Disclosure Within 30 Days
The Epstein Files Transparency Act mandates the release of all files within 30 days. This includes communications and information on the investigation into Epstein’s death. His death occurred in a Manhattan prison in 2019 while awaiting trial.
The bill allows for some redactions to protect victims and ongoing investigations. It explicitly forbids redactions due to embarrassment or political sensitivity. This clause is crucial for ensuring powerful names are not shielded.
The next step is a Senate vote. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has stated he will push for its passage. If approved, the bill will go to the President’s desk for signature.
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What does the Epstein Files Transparency Act require?
The act requires the Department of Justice to publicly release its files on Jeffrey Epstein. This must be done within 30 days of the bill becoming law. Information can be redacted only to protect victims or active probes.
Who voted against the bill in the House?
Only one representative, Clay Higgins of Louisiana, voted against the legislation. Higgins, a Republican, chairs a subcommittee that had previously subpoenaed the Justice Department for these same files.
What was President Trump’s position on the bill?
President Trump initially opposed the release, calling it a “Democrat hoax.” He later reversed his stance and endorsed the legislation. He has stated he will sign the bill if it passes the Senate.
What happens if the Senate passes the bill?
If the Senate approves the legislation, it will be sent to the President to be signed into law. Once enacted, the 30-day clock for the Department of Justice to release the files begins.
Why is the release of these files significant?
The files are expected to provide more details on Epstein’s extensive network of associates. Survivors and transparency advocates believe it is essential for public accountability and justice.
জুমবাংলা নিউজ সবার আগে পেতে Follow করুন জুমবাংলা গুগল নিউজ, জুমবাংলা টুইটার , জুমবাংলা ফেসবুক, জুমবাংলা টেলিগ্রাম এবং সাবস্ক্রাইব করুন জুমবাংলা ইউটিউব চ্যানেলে।
