Congress reviews sexual harassment rules after multiple ethics cases

A task force led by Rep. Kat Cammack and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez is reviewing sexual harassment rules on Capitol Hill due to a recent increase in House Ethics Committee investigations related to sexual misconduct, WTOP reported.

The task force found that victims often do not know where to seek help and doubt that perpetrators will face consequences. Current reporting requirements, such as a 180-day deadline to file claims, may discourage victims from coming forward.

Three lawmakers resigned this year amid ethics investigations, two involving alleged sexual misconduct, and another member was censured for inappropriate behavior toward female aides, according to WTOP.

The task force plans to release recommendations after the November 3 elections, aiming to implement changes before the end of the year. This effort follows public outrage over government handling of related high-profile cases.

The House Ethics Committee has been central to these developments, coinciding with pressure from the Democratic Women’s Caucus and survivors advocating for transparency on related files at the Department of Justice.