Us Congress House Bill HB2406

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/27/25

Caption

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Sexual Harassment and Assault Prevention Improvements Act of 2025

Impact

The bill will impact federal statutes relating to workplace safety and employee protection standards within NOAA. It amends prior legislation to ensure that there is a standardized approach to handling sexual harassment and assault cases. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of data collection and reporting on these incidents, which could lead to improved policies and a safer working environment for all employees. The anticipated outcome is to foster a culture within NOAA that prioritizes the safety and dignity of its employees, ultimately ensuring a more accountable management system.

Summary

House Bill 2406, known as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Sexual Harassment and Assault Prevention Improvements Act of 2025, aims to address issues of sexual harassment and sexual assault involving personnel of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The bill seeks to enhance existing measures that protect employees and expands policies to better prevent and respond to incidents of harassment or assault within the agency. This legislation is notable for its comprehensive framework that mandates the establishment of clearer reporting mechanisms and the annual reporting of incidents, thus promoting transparency in investigations and disciplinary actions taken against perpetrators.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intent to improve workplace conditions, there may be points of contention regarding how effectively it can be implemented in practice. Concerns could arise around the adequacy of the proposed data collection measures, the thoroughness of the investigations into reported incidents, and the provision of adequate resources for victim support. There may be skepticism relating to whether this legislation will truly result in meaningful change or whether it will be seen as merely a symbolic gesture without sufficient follow-through on accountability and oversight.

Congress_id

119-HR-2406

Introduced_date

2025-03-27