Trump says he doesn't care about bill

House, Senate Move to Release Epstein Files in 427-1 Vote

The United States House of Representatives approved legislation by a striking 427-1 margin to force the United States Department of Justice to publicly release all non-classified files tied to Jeffrey Epstein and his network.

What the Bill Does

• Requires DOJ to declassify and publish “all documents, records, communications and investigative materials” in its possession that relate to Epstein’s investigation and prosecution.
• Allows redactions only for: victim privacy, ongoing investigations, or national security—not for “embarrassment, reputational harm, or political sensitivity.”
• Now moves to the United States Senate and must be signed by Donald Trump to become law.

Why It Matters

• Transparency push built up over years: survivors and advocates argue the full story of Epstein’s crimes and connections has been hidden.
• Could expose politically-powerful figures, proprietary networks, or institutional failures—raising major accountability questions for both parties.
• Unusual bipartisan margin suggests shifting political calculus—even those who opposed earlier efforts backed this version.

What Comes Next

• Although the House vote is done, Senate action is still required. Some Senate GOP leaders have indicated they may seek amendments, risking delay. TIME+1
• If signed into law, the timeline kicks in (typically 30 days) for release of the files. Observers will watch whether DOJ complies or seeks court challenges. TIME
• Market watchers should monitor “headline risk” across media, legal, and regulation-sensitive stocks if revelations hit.
• The optics: survivors and civil society groups will measure the outcome as a test of real accountability vs. symbolic action.

Market & Options-Angle

• Media and legal-services firms may see sentiment volatility with big revelations.
• Law-tech and e-disclosure firms could glimpse demand uptick.
• Political risk hedge flows might spike in firms dependent on regulation or reputational exposure.

Wrap-Up

This vote marks a major turning point in the effort to lift the veil on Epstein-related materials. While the legislative finish line still lies ahead, the momentum is undeniable—and the potential fallout, once documents are released, could reshape narratives of power, justice, and transparency.