Congress reviews sexual harassment rules amid ethics cases

A bipartisan task force is reviewing sexual harassment rules in Congress, prompted by an increase in ethics investigations involving lawmakers and staff this year. The group aims to reform a system that members say is currently designed to discourage victims from coming forward.

Rep. Kat Cammack, R-Fla., who is leading the task force with Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez, D-N.M., said former staffers have shared "gut-wrenching" stories of misconduct and fear career repercussions for reporting it. Cammack noted that victims often lack clarity on where to seek help and do not trust that perpetrators will face consequences.

The current reporting process also presents obstacles, including a 180-day "shot clock" for filing claims after an alleged violation. "The entire system on Capitol Hill is really designed to create a chilling effect for victims," Cammack said.

The task force is expected to present its recommendations after the Nov. 3 elections, with the goal of enacting changes before the end of the year. This initiative comes as the House Ethics Committee has been central to several high-profile cases.

This year, three lawmakers resigned rather than face expulsion votes, two of which involved allegations of sexual misconduct. Another member was censured for inappropriate conduct toward staff. Investigations into other members are ongoing.

Among the cases drawing attention was the investigation into then-Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., for alleged sexual misconduct toward an employee. Swalwell resigned before a potential expulsion vote. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, also resigned as the committee investigated allegations of sexual misconduct with a staff member. Most recently, Rep. Chuck Edwards, R-N.C., was recommended for censure by the committee for persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two female staffers, a recommendation the House approved.

Rep. Jimmy Gomez, D-Calif., is also under investigation for alleged sexual misconduct with a House staffer, which he stated was consensual and did not violate House rules. Rep. Cory Mills, R-Fla., faces an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct and dating violence, which he denies.

Cammack and Leger Fernandez began discussions on reform after realizing the need for structural changes on both sides of the aisle. The task force has held listening sessions with lawmakers and staff, and consulted with military, corporate, and victim advocacy groups.

Previous efforts to address sexual harassment in Congress include legislation passed in 2018 requiring lawmakers to reimburse the Treasury for settlements and ensuring staff access to advocates. The current task force is considering expanding the ban on romantic relationships to include all congressional staff, not just those on a lawmaker's own staff or committee.

Streamlining the reporting system and increasing the time frame for filing complaints are also key areas of focus. The task force is exploring ways to make reporting easier, with Leger Fernandez suggesting a "911 for sexual harassment line" for guidance. They are also looking at extending the filing window beyond the current 180 days, similar to provisions in the private sector.

Additionally, the group aims to enhance accountability for those who engage in harassment. "The fact that we're still trying to insist that it is not OK to sexually abuse or harass women in 2026 is outrageous, and if you're a woman, is so incredibly frustrating and sad," Leger Fernandez stated.