Rep. Comstock resolution mandates annual anti-harassment and anti-discrimination training

The House of Representatives will consider Congresswoman Comstock’s bipartisan Resolution this upcoming week requiring all Members and staff to complete mandatory anti-harassment and anti-discrimination training during each session of Congress, according to a news release from Comstock’s office.

The Resolution is also sponsored by Representative Jackie Speier (D-CA), House Administration Chairman Gregg Harper (R-MS), and Ranking Member Robert Brady (D-PA). The Resolution is expected to be voted on by the full House this week, the news release stated.

Comstock was quoted in the release as saying, “Recent cases of sexual harassment both within Congress, and outside in other industries, make clear that we need increased efforts to provide zero tolerance for any form of sexual harassment in Congress.  This bipartisan Resolution is a first step and more will still be done.  This Resolution reforms House rules so that staff, interns, and fellows have the necessary protections if they face sexual harassment or discrimination in the Congressional workplace. This resolution will also put in the proper protocols and training so that both staff and Members are fully trained on anti-sexual harassment and anti-discrimination procedures.”

“I want to thank House Administration Chairman Gregg Harper in working in a bipartisan manner on this resolution.  Fostering a safe and healthy work environment in the House of Representatives is a priority for the Committee.  Going forward we also will be working on additional legislation that will bring more accountability and transparency in cases of sexual harassment. The House Administration Committee will also be holding a hearing on December 7th to examine the Congressional Accountability Act and best practices going forward to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.” 

Background:
· The Resolution requires that all House Members, Officers, employees, including interns, detailees, and fellows, of the House of Representatives shall complete an anti-harassment and anti-discrimination training program during each session of Congress.

· Each individual must complete the training within 90 days of the session. For new hires, staff must complete the training within 90 days of their hire date during the session. For the current 115th Congress, each individual shall complete the training no later than 180 days after the second session of Congress begins.

· Each individual will provide his or her certificate of completion to the Committee on House Administration and the training must be repeated every session of Congress.

· The Resolution tasks the Committee on House Administration with issuing regulations to ensure compliance and transparency. As part of the Committee’s extensive review, these regulations will be drafted and adopted by the Committee within 30 days of enactment of the Resolution.

· Additionally, the Resolution requires the posting of a statement of the rights and protections provided to employees of the House of Representatives under the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995.