A US House oversight committee has unanimously voted to recommend that billionaire investor Leon Black be held in contempt of Congress. The recommendation follows Black's alleged refusal to comply with subpoenas seeking his testimony and nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) as part of the committee's investigation into Jeffrey Epstein.
More than a dozen survivors of Epstein's abuse praised the committee's 41-0 vote, stating it sends a "clear message that wealth and influence do not put anyone beyond the reach of congressional oversight."
Black has consistently denied any wrongdoing and stated he had no knowledge of Epstein’s criminal activities. He appeared for a transcribed interview in June, but the session ended after lawmakers said he refused to answer questions about NDAs. Black subsequently did not appear for a scheduled deposition on 3 September and did not produce all requested NDAs, instead suing the committee.
On Wednesday, a day after the committee's vote, Chairman James Comer announced the introduction of the Survivor’s Voice Protection Act. This proposed legislation aims to ensure survivors can speak freely about sexual abuse, even if they signed an NDA, and establish an obligation to report suspected grooming behaviour to law enforcement.