Will Congress pass Supreme Court ethics reform before 2028?

Public anger over ethics lapses has generated bipartisan polling support for SCOTUS reform, and the Court's voluntary ethics code adopted in 2023 was widely criticized as toothless. However, passing legislation faces enormous obstacles: Republican opposition in the Senate, constitutional separation of powers concerns about Congress regulating the judiciary, and potential filibuster. Even if Democrats achieve unified government, the constitutional questions would likely delay or dilute any bill.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2026

Resolves YES if the President signs legislation that imposes binding ethics requirements (disclosure, recusal, or conduct rules) specifically on Supreme Court Justices before January 1, 2028.

Source: Congressional Record / Presidential Signing Statements

Expected resolution: January 15, 2028