DOJ Proposes Rule to Limit State Ethics Probes

The United States Department of Justice introduced a proposed rule to limit state-level ethics investigations into current and former department lawyers. Signed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, the rule authorizes the attorney general to review misconduct allegations and request that state bar associations temporarily pause disciplinary proceedings.

The department argues this safeguard protects lawyers from politically motivated complaints and prevents the weaponization of bar associations against allies of President Donald Trump. The proposal would prohibit DOJ lawyers from assisting state investigations until a federal review is complete, although state bars would maintain the ultimate authority to impose sanctions.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche criticized state-level disciplinary investigations as being led by activist bars. Critics of the measure contend it weakens independent oversight and establishes a double standard between government and private attorneys. The rule is currently open for a 30-day public comment period.