WASHINGTON — The Pentagon is tightening the rules for complaints brought to its inspector general, requiring claims to meet a credibility bar and sharply limiting anonymous reports.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced the policy Tuesday in a video statement, saying commanders need relief from what he described as a flood of frivolous complaints. The new framework, which Hegseth called “no more walking on eggshells,” would end investigations launched on speculation, personal grievances or hearsay, he said.
Hegseth said he is directing every military department to align with the policy set by the War Department’s inspector general lead. Anonymous complaints will now be considered only when they allege fraud, waste or abuse, or when they carry specific, credible evidence of major wrongdoing, unlawful conduct, or a substantial danger to public health or safety, he said.
The secretary argued the old system let complaints accumulate and pulled commanders into disputes with attorneys and personnel staff. He said the revised process is meant to protect people who report genuine misconduct while cutting off baseless claims.
