The Judicial Ethics Enforcement Act of 2025 proposes to establish an Office of Inspector General for the Judicial Branch to enhance oversight and accountability. This new office would be responsible for investigating alleged misconduct, preventing waste, fraud, and abuse, and recommending changes to laws or regulations within the judicial branch. The Inspector General, who would head this office, is to be appointed by the Chief Justice of the United States after consultation with congressional leaders. The Inspector General would serve a four-year term and could be reappointed, with removal possible by the Chief Justice, who must communicate the reasons to Congress.

The Inspector General's duties include conducting investigations into alleged misconduct across the judicial branch, including violations of the Code of Conduct for Justices of the Supreme Court or other misconduct within the Supreme Court. The office would possess significant powers, such as subpoena authority for witnesses and documents, and the ability to obtain information from various judicial entities like the Judicial Conference. However, the Inspector General is expressly prohibited from investigating the merits of judicial decisions or procedural rulings, and cannot punish or discipline judges or justices.

To ensure transparency and accountability, the Inspector General would be required to submit annual reports to the Chief Justice and Congress, as well as prompt reports on matters requiring immediate action. Any suspected violations of federal criminal law must be expeditiously reported to the Attorney General. Furthermore, the bill includes robust whistleblower protections, safeguarding judicial employees from retaliation for reporting potential misconduct or legal violations, with provisions for civil action for those who experience discrimination.