Labor FOIA: Acosta Confirmation & NPA

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR — FOIA RESPONSE Subject: Records Related to Alexander Acosta Confirmation and Epstein NPA Agency: U.S. Department of Labor Date: 2017 BACKGROUND: Alexander Acosta was nominated as U.S. Secretary of Labor in February 2017 and confirmed by the Senate in April 2017. During his confirmation process, his role in negotiating the 2008 Epstein non-prosecution agreement was a known factor. FOIA REQUEST: Records were sought regarding: - Internal DOL communications about the Epstein NPA during confirmation preparation - Vetting materials prepared for Senate confirmation - Communications between DOL and White House regarding the Epstein matter - Any briefing materials prepared about potential Epstein-related questions CONFIRMATION HEARING CONTEXT: During his Senate Commerce Committee confirmation hearing on March 22, 2017, Acosta was questioned about the Epstein case. He stated: - The NPA was handled by career prosecutors - The state was initially going to let Epstein off without any jail time - The federal intervention ensured Epstein would serve time and register as a sex offender - He believed the outcome was appropriate given the circumstances RECORDS PRODUCED: Responsive records included: - Preparation materials for confirmation hearing questions about Epstein - Internal communications regarding media inquiries about the case - Background briefing documents on the NPA SIGNIFICANCE: These records documented the extent to which the Epstein NPA was considered a potential liability during Acosta's confirmation and how the administration and Senate addressed the issue. Source: Department of Labor FOIA Available at: https://www.dol.gov/general/foia