Washington, April 9 -- The Justice Department told Congress this week that former Attorney General Pam Bondi will not appear for a scheduled deposition in the investigation into the government's handling of the Epstein files, setting up a confrontation with lawmakers who say her testimony remains essential.

Bondi, who was subpoenaed by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, had been expected to testify on April 14 about the release of documents tied to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. But department officials said she will not appear for a scheduled deposition, arguing that the subpoena no longer binds her because it was issued while she held office.

Members of the committee, from both parties, rejected that argument al...