Bill > HR7583

This bill, known as the "BE HEARD in the Workplace Act," aims to prevent and reduce workplace discrimination and harassment by strengthening existing laws and introducing new protections. Key provisions include mandating that employers with 15 or more employees establish and disseminate comprehensive nondiscrimination policies, requiring employers to provide nondiscrimination training for employees and supervisors, and offering resource materials and training for small businesses. The bill also proposes research into the prevalence of harassment, studies on harassment within the Federal Government, and the establishment of an Office of Education and Outreach within the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to improve public awareness and access to resources. Furthermore, it clarifies that discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is unlawful sex discrimination, expands protections to independent contractors, interns, and volunteers, and prohibits mandatory arbitration and nondisclosure agreements related to harassment and discrimination claims. The bill also extends statutes of limitations for filing complaints, allows for compensatory and punitive damages, clarifies standards of proof for discrimination and harassment, and establishes supervisor liability. Finally, it introduces nationwide grants to prevent and respond to workplace discrimination, provides grants for legal assistance to low-income workers, and supports a system of state advocacy to protect workers' rights.

Education

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7583/all-info