Rep. Crane Supports Epstein Files Transparency Act

On July 16, 2025, Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) cosponsored H.Res.581 to ensure public access to Department of Justice (DOJ) records connected to Jeffrey Epstein and his criminal network.

Today, he voted in favor of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which passed the House and now awaits consideration in the U.S. Senate.

The legislation, introduced by Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA), requires the DOJ to release all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials within 30 days.

Specifically, the bill mandates publication of information related to:

• Jeffrey Epstein, including investigations, prosecutions, and custodial matters
• Ghislaine Maxwell
• Flight logs and travel records for aircraft, vessels, or vehicles used by Epstein or related entities
• Individuals named in connection with Epstein's criminal activities, settlements, or immunity agreements
• Entities with known or alleged ties to Epstein's trafficking or financial networks
• Any immunity deals, non-prosecution agreements, plea bargains, or sealed settlements involving Epstein or his associates
• Internal DOJ communications regarding decisions to charge, investigate, or decline to investigate Epstein or his associates
• Records concerning the destruction, deletion, or concealment of Epstein-related documents or data
• Documentation of Epstein's detention and death, including autopsy reports, incident records, and witness interviews

The DOJ may only redact or withhold limited categories of information, including victims' personal data, child sexual abuse material, classified national security information, or content that would jeopardize an active investigation. All redactions must be accompanied by written justifications published in the Federal Register and submitted to Congress.

Within 15 days of completing the records release, the Attorney General must also provide Congress with a comprehensive report listing all categories of records released or withheld, the legal basis for any redactions, and a list of all government officials and politically exposed individuals named in the released materials.

Rep. Crane cautioned that the bill as currently written could unintentionally harm the reputations of individuals who were cleared of all wrongdoing. He also emphasized the need to protect victims' privacy and ensure survivors are not spotlighted against their wishes. He is hopeful that the Senate will address these issues while preserving the bill's core mission.

"A government of the people, by the people, and for the people must provide transparency and accountability. By voting to release records related to Jeffrey Epstein, we are taking an important step toward justice for the victims and consequences for those responsible for these egregious crimes," said Rep. Crane. "At the same time, I believe we must protect the privacy of victims and avoid unfairly damaging the reputations of those who did nothing wrong. I urge the Senate to address these concerns and continue momentum toward transparency and fairness."