Political Integrity Network
HR 2406 · 119th Congress · House

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

In committee
IntroducedMar 27, 2025
Policy areaPublic Lands and Natural Resources
Cosponsors3
What this bill is intended to do

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Sexual Harassment and Assault Prevention Improvements Act of 2025 This bill expands requirements for addressing sexual harassment and sexual assault involving personnel of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The bill specifies that NOAA's sexual harassment prevention and response policy applies to personnel such as observers, at-sea monitors, and voting members and staff of regional fishery management councils. The bill removes the requirement that certain acts, such as assault, intimidation, and sexual harassment of an observer or a data collector, be forcible in nature to be unlawful. The bill also requires NOAA's Office of Marine and Aviation Operations to establish a policy for reporting to the Coast Guard the names of NOAA personnel involved in a sexual harassment or sexual assault claim. Specifically, such reports must identify employees or contractors who are the subject of such claim, the time and date of the incident, and the location of the vessel when the incident occurred. The bill prohibits a person convicted of certain sexual offenses from enlisting with or being commissioned by NOAA. Additionally, the bill directs NOAA to update its policies to develop a restricted reporting system that allows employees and other personnel to confidentially report sexual harassment or assault and receive services without triggering an investigation. Finally, the bill also expands reporting requirements on sexual harassment, sexual assault, and equal employment.

Latest action

Sep 15, 2026Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

C68

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Sexual Harassment and Assault Prevention Improvements Act of 2025 aims to enhance policies and reporting mechanisms related to sexual harassment and assault within NOAA. It includes provisions for data collection, reporting, and victim anonymity, and mandates updates to existing policies. The bill focuses on improving accountability and transparency in handling such cases.

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