Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith, Bill Cassidy, and Marsha Blackburn have reintroduced a bill aimed at penalizing those who leak confidential information from the U.S. Supreme Court. The proposed legislation, titled the Stop Supreme Court Leakers Act (S.1143), seeks to impose a $10,000 fine and up to a 10-year prison sentence on individuals who disseminate such information. Additionally, the act would authorize the confiscation of profits gained from leaks, including but not limited to revenues from book deals or cable television contracts.
“Supreme Court justices must be able to carry out their responsibilities without the threat of their every action being leaked, whether to influence, embarrass, or threaten them. Such actions, which we’ve seen in recent years, only undermine public trust and the Supreme Court as an institution,” commented Senator Hyde-Smith. “This legislation is needed to establish significant criminal penalties and fines for those who cross that line and betray the Court.”
Senator Cassidy echoed the sentiment, stating, “Supreme Court leaks should be a criminal offense. Leakers threaten the safety of justices, damage the Court’s reputation, and put lives at risk. They must be held accountable, not celebrated.”
Senator Blackburn added, “Individuals who aim to undermine the highest Court in our nation and intimidate its justices should be held accountable for their actions. The Stop Supreme Court Leakers Act is a vital piece of legislation, which would ensure that the Court’s work remains free from unwanted outside interference by cracking down on those who leak confidential information.”
S.1143 targets criminalization of leaks regarding specified information.
