H.R.2406 - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Sexual Harassment and Assault Prevention Improvements Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2406, the "National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Sexual Harassment and Assault Prevention Improvements Act of 2025," aims to amend the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 to address sexual harassment and sexual assault within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The bill focuses on improving policies, reporting mechanisms, and investigation procedures related to these issues. It also includes provisions for protecting the anonymity of victims in certain cases and mandates reporting of incidents involving mariners to the Coast Guard.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to enhanced prevention and response measures regarding sexual harassment and assault within NOAA. This includes better data collection, improved reporting systems, and clearer guidelines for investigations and disciplinary actions. The changes aim to create a safer and more equitable work environment for NOAA personnel and those working with or on behalf of the agency.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced protection for NOAA employees and related personnel against sexual harassment and assault.
- Improved reporting mechanisms, including confidential reporting options, which may encourage more victims to come forward.
- Increased transparency through annual reports on sexual harassment, sexual assault, and equal employment cases.
- Stronger accountability through mandatory reporting of incidents involving mariners to the Coast Guard.
- Clearer definitions and procedures for handling cases, ensuring consistent application of policies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased administrative burden and costs associated with implementing new reporting and investigation procedures.
- Risk of unintended consequences related to anonymity provisions, such as hindering thorough investigations in certain cases.
- Possible challenges in balancing the rights of the accused with the need to protect victims.
- The effectiveness of the new measures will depend on proper implementation and enforcement, which may require additional resources and training.
- Some may view the increased regulation as an overreach, potentially affecting morale or creating a perception of a hostile work environment for those accused.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the principles of equal protection and due process, as it seeks to ensure a safe and equitable work environment for all individuals within NOAA. While the Constitution does not explicitly address workplace harassment, the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments guarantee due process and equal protection under the law. The bill's provisions for reporting and investigation aim to balance the rights of victims and the accused, which is consistent with constitutional principles of fairness and justice.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).