On July 16, 2025, Representative Eli Crane (R-AZ) cosponsored H.Res.581 to promote public access to Department of Justice records connected to Jeffrey Epstein and his criminal network. On November 18, Rep. Crane voted in favor of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which has passed the House and now moves to the Senate for consideration.
The bill was introduced by Representatives Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA). It requires the Department of Justice to release all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The legislation limits redactions or withholdings by the DOJ to specific categories such as victims’ personal data, child sexual abuse material, classified national security information, or content that could affect ongoing investigations. Any redactions must be justified in writing and published in the Federal Register as well as submitted to Congress.
After releasing the records, the Attorney General is required within 15 days to provide Congress with a detailed report listing all categories of released or withheld records, legal reasons for any redactions, and a list of government officials and politically exposed individuals named in those materials.
Rep. Crane noted concerns that the bill could unintentionally harm individuals who were cleared of wrongdoing. He stressed protecting victims’ privacy and ensuring survivors are not identified against their wishes. He expressed hope that the Senate would address these issues while maintaining transparency.
“A government of the people, by the people, and for the people must provide full 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.”
Eli Crane has represented Arizona’s 2nd congressional district since 2023 after replacing Tom O’Halleran. Born in Tucson in 1980, he currently resides in Oro Valley.
