Jones Applauds Action to End to Taxpayer-Funded Harassment Settlements

Press Release

This week, Congressman Walter B. Jones (NC-3) continued his fight to protect victims of workplace harassment and American taxpayer dollars by supporting H.R. 4924, the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 Reform Act, and H.Res. 724. Both pieces of legislation will reform the outdated laws governing sexual harassment in the Congressional workplace.

"The American taxpayers should never have to pay for the misdeeds of their elected representatives. That's completely wrong," said Congressman Jones.

"These bills are a needed improvement in the way Congress handles harassment cases," continued Jones. "We are choosing transparency, accountability, and fully assisting victims of harassment. Thank you to House Administration Committee Chair Gregg Harper's leadership and my colleagues for your supporting these important pieces of legislation."

H.R. 4924 requires members to personally pay for any settlements to victims in cases where they are alleged to be responsible for the harassment or other discriminatory acts. It also overhauls the process for investigating and resolving complaints by congressional employees regarding sexual harassment and other discriminatory acts under the Congressional Accountability Act (CAA), including by ending forced counseling and mediation.

Among other things, H.Res. 724 requires members to certify that their office funds are not being used to pay any settlement or award in connection with conduct prohibited by the CAA.

Both H.R. 4924 and H.Res. 724 passed the House by voice vote on Tuesday, February 6th. H.R. 2924 goes to the Senate for further action. H.Res. 724 is now a part of House Rules.

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