Overview
- Speaker Mike Johnson and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on Wednesday backed a bipartisan partnership after recent member resignations, tapping Reps. Kat Cammack and Teresa Leger Fernández to co-lead it.
- The co-chairs say the work will prioritize simple ways to report misconduct, quicker case handling, better training, and protections that shield staff from retaliation.
- House Administration Chair Bryan Steil and Ranking Member Joseph Morelle will participate in ex officio roles, with their committee expected to consider proposals as a House resolution.
- Ideas under review include new disclosure rules for members who settled harassment claims and a fresh look at relationships between lawmakers and staff from other offices.
- Lawmakers say staff often avoid reporting because the process is confusing and slow, with weak training and fear of career damage discouraging complaints.