Bill > HR2181

This bill, known as the "Protect Our Watchdogs Act of 2025," establishes a standardized, more structured process for removing Inspectors General (IGs) from their positions by defining specific "for-cause" grounds for removal. Currently, Presidents have broad discretion in removing IGs, but this legislation would require that any removal be explicitly justified by one of nine specific documented reasons: permanent incapacity, neglect of duty, malfeasance, felony conviction or moral turpitude, knowing violation of law or regulation, gross mismanagement, gross waste of funds, abuse of authority, or inefficiency. The bill amends sections of Title 5 of the United States Code to mandate that when a President seeks to remove an IG, they must provide detailed documentation explaining which specific ground(s) justify the removal. This change aims to provide greater transparency and protection for IGs, who play a critical role in investigating and preventing waste, fraud, and abuse within government agencies, by making their removal more difficult and requiring explicit justification for such actions.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2181/all-info