Congressional task force reviews sexual harassment rules following a surge of ethics investigations

Congressional staff and lawmakers face potential changes to disciplinary rules, reporting mechanisms, and filing timelines for workplace misconduct claims, which could alter how complaints are handled across Capitol Hill.

• •A bipartisan congressional working group led by Reps. Kat Cammack and Teresa Leger Fernandez is reviewing sexual harassment rules on Capitol Hill.
• •The review was prompted by a spike in House Ethics Committee investigations related to sexual misconduct this year.
• •Three lawmakers resigned this year rather than face potential expulsion votes, with two of those cases involving alleged sexual misconduct.
• •Rep. Chuck Edwards was recommended for censure by the Ethics Committee over conduct toward two female staffers, and the House approved it 413-2.
• •Other ongoing or recent Ethics Committee investigations involve Reps. Jimmy Gomez and Cory Mills.
• •The task force is considering expanding the current ban on lawmakers having sexual relationships with their own staff or committee staff to cover all congressional staff.
• •The working group wants to establish a centralized reporting hotline, likened to a '911 for sexual harassment', to help staff navigate filing options.
• •Proposals include extending the current 180-day 'shot clock' window for filing a claim after an alleged violation, which would require updates to the Congressional Accountability Act and Senate approval.
• •The task force expects to release recommended changes after the November 3 elections, aiming for action before the end of the year.
• •Congress previously passed legislation in 2018 requiring lawmakers to reimburse the Treasury Department for harassment settlements and providing dedicated advocates for staff.