This bill creates a new Office of Inspector General for the Judicial Branch to oversee ethics and misconduct in federal courts. The Inspector General, appointed by the Chief Justice of the United States, would investigate allegations of misconduct against federal judges and justices (except for reviewing the merits of their legal decisions), conduct audits, and prevent fraud and waste within the judicial system. The position would have a four-year term with the power to subpoena witnesses, obtain records from courts and related agencies, and issue reports to Congress on significant matters. The bill also protects whistleblowers in the judicial branch from retaliation for reporting potential violations of federal law or misconduct. The legislation does not specify a budget amount but authorizes appropriations as needed to operate the office.
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