Protect Our Watchdogs Act of 2025

The Protect Our Watchdogs Act of 2025 would amend federal law to establish a for-cause removal standard for Inspectors General across the federal government. Currently, Inspectors General can be removed by the President with limited restrictions. This bill would require that Inspectors General may only be removed for specific documented grounds, such as permanent incapacity, neglect of duty, malfeasance, felony conviction, violation of law, gross mismanagement, gross waste of funds, abuse of authority, or inefficiency. The President would need to provide written documentation of the specific grounds for removal and notify Congress at least 30 days before any removal takes effect.

Inspectors General are federal watchdogs who investigate fraud, waste, and abuse within government agencies. The bill aims to protect their independence so they can conduct investigations without fear of political retaliation. Supporters argue this strengthens government oversight and accountability, while the bill addresses concerns about recent removals of Inspectors General that occurred without detailed explanations or advance notice to Congress.