On Tuesday, the House of Representatives voted on a ban of sexual relationships between lawmakers and their staff members. Now the bill will dovetail with the military and private industry’s rules. The bill regarding sexual relationships was prompted by recent widespread scandals of sexual harassment throughout Washington, and is a response to them. It will change the system for reporting employee claims and how they are handled. An office that will support employees during the process has also been established. Another proposed bill will require taxpayer reimbursement when lawmakers are involved in workplace sexual harassment settlements.
Nearly 10 government officials announced their retirement or resignation amid sexual harassment and misconduct allegations involving their staff members. With this bill, Congress hopes to eradicate the spread of this type of toxic behavior among lawmakers and their subordinates. The only concern with the bill involves the presence of an independent watchdog group, which will be eliminated from investigating certain claims.
If you are a victim of workplace sexual harassment, contact our Philadelphia sexual harassment lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. at 215-569-1999 or contact us online. With over 40 years of experience in employment law and workplace sexual harassment cases, our lawyers will advocate for you and protect your rights.
