Bill > HR2406

This bill aims to improve policies and reporting mechanisms related to sexual harassment and sexual assault within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The bill expands reporting requirements by mandating more comprehensive annual reports that include detailed information about sexual harassment and equal employment cases, such as synopses of incidents, disciplinary actions, and data on change of station or work location requests. It establishes new provisions for maintaining victim anonymity, allowing confidential reporting with specific exceptions for disclosure, such as preventing imminent health threats or complying with court orders. The bill broadens the definition of "covered personnel" to include various types of observers and staff, and requires vessel operators to report sexual harassment and assault incidents to the Coast Guard, with specific reporting procedures and details. Additionally, the bill makes technical amendments to existing laws, including modifying prohibited acts related to sexual offenses and adding a prohibition on service in the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps for individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses. The goal is to create a more transparent, supportive, and accountable environment for NOAA personnel by strengthening protections against sexual harassment and assault.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2406/all-info