H.R. 3537: Targeting Child Predators Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Targeting Child Predators Act of 2025, seeks to amend current laws regarding administrative subpoenas related to investigations into child exploitation and trafficking. The main features of the bill include:

Change of Authority

The bill proposes to replace the authority of the Secretary of the Treasury with the Secretary of Homeland Security in the context of issuing nondisclosure requirements associated with administrative subpoenas.

Nondisclosure Requirements

The bill outlines specific circumstances under which recipients of subpoenas cannot disclose the existence or contents of the subpoena. This nondisclosure period lasts for 180 days. The conditions that would necessitate such nondisclosure include:

• Endangering the life or physical safety of an individual.
• Flight from prosecution.
• Destruction or tampering with evidence.
• Intimidation of potential witnesses.
• Serious jeopardizing of an ongoing investigation.

Judicial Review

The bill allows individuals who receive a subpoena and are subject to a nondisclosure requirement to seek judicial review. The following steps are detailed for this process:

• Recipients may notify the government or file a petition for judicial review in a court after receiving a nondisclosure requirement.
• The government must respond within 30 days to apply for an order that continues the nondisclosure requirement.
• The district court must rule quickly on such petitions and may issue nondisclosure orders based on if they determine that disclosure could lead to any of the risks outlined in the nondisclosure section.

Closed Hearings and Sealed Filings

The bill mandates that court proceedings relating to nondisclosure requirements will be closed to prevent unauthorized disclosures. Additionally, documents related to the proceedings must be kept sealed to protect sensitive information.

Summary of Amendments

Overall, the bill aims to enhance the federal government's ability to investigate child exploitation crimes by facilitating a stricter framework for confidentiality surrounding subpoenas. This includes proactive measures to prevent disclosures that could disrupt investigations.

Relevant Companies

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