Members of Congress like soon-to-be former U.S. Sen. Al Franken would have to pay sexual harassment settlements out of their own pocket instead of taxpayer dollars under a bill sponsored by U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner.
Gardner’s bipartisan legislation would also remove the gag order on victims, extend protections to interns and eliminate forced mediation.
The need for the bill came to light after it was revealed that Democratic U.S. Rep. John Conyers paid out $27,000 in taxpayer dollars to settle a claim.
“Over the past few months, our country has experienced a much-needed transformation when it comes to listening to courageous women share their stories about harassment,” Gardner said in a statement. “No one should be forced to work in an environment where they are made to feel uncomfortable or intimidated.”
He’s right, and taxpayers should not have to pay the bill for the bad behavior of elected officials.