A resolution calling on the United States Department of Justice to conduct a full investigation of any person, regardless of political affiliation, mentioned in the Epstein files.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kelly Breen and 34 co-sponsors

Michigan HR 285 urges the U.S. DOJ to launch a full, nonpartisan federal investigation into everyone named in the Epstein files to identify victims, participants, and associates.

referred to Committee on Government Operations

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal is to urge the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to undertake a thorough, federal investigation covering every person named in the Epstein files, irrespective of political affiliation.

The measure frames the investigation as necessary to determine who were victims, who were active participants, and who were merely mentioned, in order to fully understand Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal network and ensure accountability.

It asserts that the DOJ should address potential ongoing or future threats to victims and to reveal conspirators, in light of historical concerns about redactions and prosecutorial action.

Key Provisions and Changes Proposed

A formal call for federal action: The resolution requests the DOJ to conduct a full investigation into any individual mentioned in the Epstein files.

Scope of investigation: The investigation should apply to all persons named in the Epstein materials, not restricted by political party or alignment.

Victim protection and accountability: The resolution emphasizes protecting victims, identifying conspirators, and ensuring that perpetrators or participants are held accountable.

Formal communication: The resolution directs that copies be transmitted to the Acting Attorney General of the United States, signaling formal instruction or recommendation to the DOJ.

Who/What Would be Affected

Individuals named in the Epstein files (the documents related to Jeffrey Epstein and associates) could be subject to federal investigation irrespective of political affiliation.

The U.S. Department of Justice would be the agency responsible for carrying out the investigations.

Victims of Epstein and related criminal networks are referenced as beneficiaries of enhanced accountability and potential justiciable outcomes.

International and other national actors mentioned in the Epstein files—while not directly subject to U.S. DOJ action—are cited to illustrate the broader international scope of Epstein’s network and the need for comprehensive inquiry.

Procedural/Timeline Aspects

Introduction date: April 16, 2026.

House action: Referred to the Committee on Government Operations.

Given that this is a House resolution, it expresses the sentiment of the Michigan House of Representatives and does not by itself create new law or allocate funding. It is a legislative request or lobbying document urging federal action.

The resolution does not specify a deadline or timeline for the DOJ to act, nor does it propose enforcement mechanisms at the state level.

Additional Context

The resolution cites the Epstein Files Transparency Act (passed by Congress in November 2025) and notes the DOJ’s historical stance on prosecutions related to Epstein and his contacts, arguing for renewed scrutiny.

It highlights international investigations and charges against individuals associated with Epstein to bolster the case for a comprehensive, global-appearing inquiry.

Bottom Line

HR 285 is a Michigan House resolution urging the U.S. DOJ to undertake a full, party-nonpartisan investigation of every person mentioned in the Epstein files, with the aim of distinguishing victims, participants, and mere associates, protecting victims, and ensuring accountability—transmitted to the Acting Attorney General for consideration.

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