Judicial Ethics Enforcement Act of 2025

This bill would create a watchdog office for the federal courts. It sets up an Inspector General for the judicial branch to look into misconduct, waste, fraud, and abuse—even at the Supreme Court. The Inspector General would be picked by the Chief Justice for a four‑year term and could be reappointed. If removed, the Chief Justice must tell Congress why. The office can audit, subpoena records and witnesses, and recommend changes. But it cannot review or change court rulings or punish judges. It must report every year to the Chief Justice and Congress, and quickly alert the Attorney General if it finds likely crimes. The bill also protects court employees who report problems from retaliation.

Key points

• Who is affected: Federal judges and court employees, including at the Supreme Court.
• What changes: Creates an Inspector General’s office; sets powers to investigate and audit; requires regular reports; and adds whistleblower protections.
• Limits: The office cannot revisit case decisions or discipline judges. For complaints about lower‑court judges, it generally steps in after the existing complaint process is finished or referred.
• When: The provided text does not state an effective date.