H.R. 2406: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Sexual Harassment and Assault Prevention Improvements Act of 2025

This bill, titled the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Sexual Harassment and Assault Prevention Improvements Act of 2025, aims to modify existing legislation regarding sexual harassment and assault prevention within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The primary objectives and modifications proposed in the bill are as follows:

Policy Amendments

The bill proposes to amend current policies on sexual harassment and equal employment for NOAA personnel. Specifically, it includes provisions for:

• Adding a focus on "equal employment" alongside sexual harassment in existing policies.
• Requiring the collection of relevant data on sexual harassment and equal employment cases, including specific case synopses and outcomes.

Annual Reporting Requirements

The bill mandates an annual report on sexual harassment, sexual assault, and equal employment within NOAA, which should include:

• A summary of all reported sexual harassment and assault cases along with disciplinary actions taken.
• Statistics on transfers and change requests related to employment, including the number of requests that were denied.
• Specific details regarding cases involving fisheries observers and other protected personnel.

Investigation Protocols

The bill aims to enhance the protocols for investigating sexual harassment and assault cases. Key aspects include:

• Clarifying that victims can report incidents without triggering an immediate investigative process.
• Establishing rules for criminal referrals during the investigation process.

Mariner Reporting Requirements

There will be updated requirements for reporting incidents of sexual harassment or assault involving mariners, including:

• Mandatory reporting by responsible vessel entities to the Coast Guard for any violations involving NOAA employees.
• Ensuring that reports include detailed information about the incident.

Victim Anonymity and Reporting Options

The bill incorporates provisions for maintaining the anonymity of victims under certain reporting circumstances:

• Disclosures of identifying information are limited and only allowed under specific conditions, such as for health protection or legal requirements.
• Victims will have options for restricted reporting to protect their privacy.

Prohibited Acts

The bill will revise existing prohibitions related to sexual offenses within the NOAA's command structure, ensuring that individuals convicted of sexual offenses are barred from serving in the NOAA's commissioned officer corps.

Definitions and Technical Amendments

Definition updates clarify terminology used in the legislation. Technical adjustments ensure consistency in language and alignment with other federal laws related to harassment and assault.

Relevant Companies

None found.