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The Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed into law on Wednesday, requires the Department of Justice to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. However, it remains uncertain what the public will see and when. The law mandates that the DOJ make all unclassified records, documents, and investigative materials related to Epstein publicly available in a searchable format. This includes files from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Attorneys' Offices.
Attorney General Pam Bondi has committed to "follow the law" and ensure maximum transparency, having already released over 33,000 documents to Congress. The bill includes exceptions that allow the DOJ to withhold or redact identities and personal information of Epstein's victims, as well as materials that could jeopardize ongoing investigations. According to ABC News, Bondi emphasized the importance of protecting victims while adhering to the law.
The bill, co-authored by Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna, aims to provide transparency and accountability for Epstein's victims. The measure passed the House with overwhelming support and was approved by the Senate. NBC News reported that the DOJ is directed to release documents related to Epstein's criminal activities, civil settlements, and investigatory proceedings. The files also include information about entities with alleged ties to Epstein's trafficking networks.
The law prohibits withholding records due to embarrassment or political sensitivity, but allows for temporary withholding if it would jeopardize active investigations. The DOJ must justify any redactions within 15 days of the public release. The release of these files could be influenced by new investigations, including those ordered by President Trump into figures like former President Bill Clinton.
The DOJ has until December 19 to comply with the act, though the scope and completeness of the released files remain uncertain. Reuters noted that the files could provide insight into Epstein's criminal network and those involved.
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