[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 195 (Thursday, November 30, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1630]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   REQUIRING COMPLETION OF TRAINING PROGRAM IN WORKPLACE RIGHTS AND 
                            RESPONSIBILITIES

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                       HON. LUCILLE ROYBAL-ALLARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 29, 2017

  Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, this resolution will require all 
Members of Congress and all employees of the House, including fellows, 
detailees, and interns, to complete an anti-harassment and anti-
discrimination training program each year. Harassment of any kind has 
no place within Congress, and passing this resolution will re-enforce 
that for Members and staff. By voting for this resolution, we will also 
ensure that all employees are made aware of their rights and the 
protections they have against discrimination, harassment, and 
retaliation for exercising their rights. We must set an example for the 
nation by creating a professional workplace environment in which 
employees feel safe and in which workplace rights and responsibilities 
are respected. While this makes clear the House position against 
workplace sexual harassment or discrimination, it is only a first step. 
I look forward to simplifying and reforming the complaint process to 
bring greater transparency and accountability for reporting incidents 
of inappropriate workplace behavior. This new policy and our new 
national awareness are long overdue but necessary as we begin the long 
process to ensure the workplace is safe and welcoming for all 
employees.