What the Committee Does
The Judiciary Committee handles legislation and oversight related to the federal court system, judicial nominations, civil rights and liberties, criminal law, intellectual property, and immigration. It plays a central role in shaping how justice is administered in the United States.
The committee reviews and reports on nominees for the Supreme Court, the courts of appeals, and the district courts, as well as key Justice Department positions. It also crafts major bills on sentencing, policing, cybersecurity, privacy, and national security authorities.
Led by the Chair and Ranking Member, the committee conducts high-profile hearings, investigations, and markups that often define national debates over the rule of law, civil liberties, and public safety.
Committee Membership
Durbin (Ranking Member) appears at the far left of the outer arc; Grassley (Chair) at the far right. Democrats cluster on the left, Republicans on the right.
Key Judiciary Committee Legislation
Recent justice, courts, and civil-rights measuresCountering Threats and Attacks on Our Judges Act
Improves security protections, threat monitoring, and resources to prevent and respond to attacks and harassment targeting federal judges and their families.
Bankruptcy Administration Improvement Act of 2025
Modernizes and funds the federal bankruptcy system, helping courts manage caseloads and ensuring trustees and administrators can operate effectively.
Improving Police CARE Act
Supports training, mental health resources, and best practices to improve officer wellness and community-focused policing.
Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act
Enhances tools for investigating and prosecuting child exploitation offenses, including improved coordination among law-enforcement agencies.
DETERRENCE Act
Bolsters efforts to deter and punish cyber-enabled crime and foreign malign activity that threatens U.S. national security and critical systems.
TRACE Act
Improves tracing and data collection on illicit firearms to help law enforcement disrupt trafficking networks and violent crime.
Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act of 2025
Honors Chief Herbert D. Proffitt by strengthening support and recognition for law-enforcement officers injured or killed in the line of duty.
Foundation of the Federal Bar Association Charter Amendments Act of 2025
Updates the charter of the Federal Bar Association’s foundation to reflect current governance and charitable practices.
HALT Fentanyl Act
Makes permanent and strengthens controls on illicit fentanyl-related substances, giving law enforcement more tools to combat the overdose crisis.
Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act
Expands measures to protect correctional officers and prison staff, including penalties for assaults and access to safety equipment.
LACA
Addresses immigration and border-related enforcement issues, focusing on criminal activity and cross-border trafficking.
Designating October 2025 as "National Principals Month"
Recognizes school principals nationwide for their leadership and contributions to student success and school safety.
Designating November 30, 2025, as "Drive Safer Sunday"
Raises awareness about highway safety on one of the busiest travel days of the year and encourages safe-driving practices.
Commending Delta State University on 100 Years of Service
Honors Delta State University’s century of educational service and its contributions to Mississippi and the nation.
Designating the week of October 12, 2025, as "National Wildlife Refuge Week"
Highlights the importance of the National Wildlife Refuge System and conservation of habitat and species.
Designating September 30, 2025, as "Impact Aid Recognition Day"
Recognizes the 75th anniversary of the Impact Aid program, which supports school districts affected by federal activities.
Condemning the Act of Violence in Evergreen, Colorado
Condemns a tragic attack in Evergreen, Colorado, and expresses support for the victims, survivors, and first responders.
Honoring Victims of the Annunciation Catholic Church and School Shooting
Expresses condolences and solidarity with the Minneapolis community after a mass shooting at a church and school.
Designating July 30, 2025, as "National Whistleblower Appreciation Day"
Honors whistleblowers for exposing waste, fraud, and abuse and underscores the need to protect them from retaliation.
Recognizing the Importance of Trademarks and "National Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Education and Awareness Month"
Highlights the role of trademarks in consumer protection and combating counterfeit goods.
Condemning Attacks on Minnesota Lawmakers
Condemns political violence in Minnesota and calls for unity and respect for democratic institutions.
Commemorating June 19, 2025, as "Juneteenth National Independence Day"
Recognizes the historical significance of Juneteenth and the end of slavery in the Southwestern United States.
Commemorating the 90th Birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama as "A Day of Compassion"
Honors the Dalai Lama and supports the human rights and cultural identity of the Tibetan people.
Designating June 12, 2025, as "Women Veterans Appreciation Day"
Recognizes the service and sacrifices of women veterans across the United States.
Honoring the Victims of the Pulse Nightclub Attack
Honors the memory of victims of the 2016 Pulse nightclub attack and stands with the LGBTQ+ community.
Recognizing June 2, 2025, as the 39th Anniversary of C-SPAN in the Senate
Commends C-SPAN for nearly four decades of broadcasting Senate proceedings and enhancing government transparency.
Designating May 2025 as "National Wildfire Preparedness Month"
Raises awareness of wildfire risks and promotes preparedness and mitigation efforts.
Designating a Week in September 2025 as "National Truck Driver Appreciation Week"
Recognizes truck drivers’ essential role in the national economy and supply chains.
Recognizing Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Celebrates the contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders to U.S. history and culture.
Designating April 2025 as "Second Chance Month"
Encourages support for people reentering society after incarceration and highlights the importance of redemption and rehabilitation.
Supporting "Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day"
Raises awareness about mental health challenges in the agricultural community and works to reduce stigma.
Recognizing Girl Scouts of the United States of America on its 113th Birthday
Celebrates the Girl Scouts’ legacy of providing girls with leadership opportunities and supportive spaces.