Massie vows to force House vote on second Epstein files bill next week

Rep. Thomas Massie said he will gather the 218 signatures needed next week to force a House floor vote on the Epstein Files Transparency Act II, which would let survivors obtain their records and state attorneys general prosecute crimes.

Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., the sponsor of the original Epstein Files Transparency Act, said Thursday he is confident he can force a House vote on a follow-up bill once Congress returns after the midterm elections. "When we return next week, we'll get 218 signatures for Epstein Files Transparency Act II, which guarantees a vote," Massie wrote.

"Survivors will be able to get their own records, State Attorneys General can prosecute crimes, and we can take the DOJ to court for keeping critical files hidden," he added. A discharge petition signed by 218 members, a majority of the House, forces a bill to the floor without the support of leadership.

Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., the Democratic co-sponsor of the original legislation, called the new measure the "Epstein 2.0 Act," saying it would allow state attorneys general to prosecute those who abused and trafficked young girls.

The House vote tally on the original Epstein Files Transparency Act in November 2025

The first Epstein Files Transparency Act passed the House 427-1 in November 2025 and forced the Justice Department to release millions of files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Survivors and other backers have since called for greater transparency, including over redactions in the files, and for further prosecutions of Epstein's associates. Massie and Khanna argue Epstein had additional co-conspirators who should face criminal charges.

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