Bi-Partisan Legislation introduced last month would require the Congressional Office of Compliance to submit to Congress the names of those members who have used taxpayer funds to settle sexual harassment claims. It would also require Congress members to reimburse the U.S. Treasury, and void non-disclosure agreements so victims can tell their stories.
This legislation will protect taxpayers by making congressional settlement data public, barring tax dollars from being used to bail out congressional misconduct and requiring reimbursement of the treasury by members and staff who have had taxpayer-financed settlements paid on their behalf.
The bill will also allow victims to speak publicly about harassment suffered irrespective of any non-disclosure agreements. The “Congressional Accountability and Hush Fund Elimination Act,” was introduced on Nov. 30, currently has 88 co-sponsors.
Noted News
California health officials have a new safety message for cellphone users. CBS San Francisco reports that for the first time ever, the California Department of Public Health is releasing guidelines about cellphone radiation and how you can reduce your exposure.
“We recognize that there are a lot of people in the general public that have some concerns about their cellphones and whether using a cellphone is safe,” said Dr. Karen Smith of the California Department of Public Health.
“When you sleep, you keep the cellphone at least arm’s length away from your body. And also, not carrying your cellphone in your pocket, having it either in your purse or not carrying it with you,” Smith advised. From CBS News: