Congressional Accountability Act Enhancement Act

Congressional Accountability Act Enhancement Act

This bill extends the liability of Members of Congress for employment discrimination settlements and awards and expands certain employment protections for congressional employees.

Current law requires that a Member who commits an act of harassment in violation of employment-based civil rights protections must reimburse the Treasury for amounts paid as settlements or awards resulting from the act. This bill also requires that Members reimburse the Treasury for amounts paid resulting from any unlawful discrimination and related retaliation.

Additionally, the bill grants congressional employees a 10-day period to amend a filing alleging employment discrimination if the hearing officer determines the initial filing failed to state a claim for which relief could be granted.

The bill also allows the Office of Employee Advocacy to continue to assist a congressional employee with investigations and proceedings related to a claim of workplace discrimination even after the employee begins federal court proceedings.

The Congressional Accountability Act Enhancement Act, also known as Bill 117 HR 7542, is a piece of legislation aimed at strengthening the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995. The Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 was originally passed to apply workplace protections to employees of the legislative branch, including protections against discrimination and harassment.

The Enhancement Act seeks to build upon the original legislation by expanding the scope of protections provided to congressional employees. This includes extending protections to interns, fellows, and detailees, as well as providing additional resources for training and education on workplace rights and responsibilities.

Additionally, the Enhancement Act aims to improve the process for reporting and resolving complaints of discrimination and harassment within the legislative branch. This includes establishing a confidential process for reporting complaints, as well as requiring annual reporting on the number and outcomes of complaints filed. Overall, the Congressional Accountability Act Enhancement Act is designed to strengthen workplace protections for congressional employees and improve the accountability and transparency of the legislative branch. It is an important piece of legislation that aims to create a safer and more inclusive work environment for all individuals working within Congress.