Bill > S2204

This bill establishes a Commission on Workplace Harassment and Sexual Assault in the Legislature to address and investigate workplace harassment within the state's legislative environment. The commission will consist of 13 members appointed by various state leaders, legal associations, and caucuses, and will operate independently within the executive office of administration and finance. The commission's key responsibilities include investigating workplace harassment claims, ensuring transparent processes, monitoring harassment reports, providing resources to individuals, establishing model workplace harassment policies and training programs, and conducting annual workplace harassment surveys. The bill defines workplace harassment broadly, including identity-based harassment, sexual harassment, and sexual assault, and creates a detailed process for reporting and investigating claims. The general counsel of the commission will lead investigations, which must be completed within 6 months, and will compile investigative reports that may recommend disciplinary actions ranging from reprimands to expulsion for legislators or removal for employees. The bill also includes strong protections against retaliation for individuals who report harassment and mandates confidentiality in most investigation proceedings. Additionally, the commission is tasked with developing model workplace harassment policies and training programs that can be adopted by the Senate and House of Representatives, with the goal of creating a safer, more respectful legislative workplace.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2204