“Mayor Bowser Mandates Sexual Harassment Training for All DC Government Employees”

Photo by PoPville flickr user Lorie Shaull

From the Mayor’s Office:

“This week, Mayor Bowser signed a Mayor’s Order requiring all 30,000-plus DC Government employees to complete sexual harassment training by February 28, 2018. The measure also mandates that all 1,500 supervisors complete advanced training to ensure any complaints are handled thoroughly and efficiently. Mayor’s Order 2017-313 “Sexual Harassment Policy, Guidance and Procedures” modernizes previous guidelines, a review which the Bowser Administration undertook amid the much-needed and growing conversation on sexual harassment around the nation.

“Sexual harassment violates DC values, we take all claims of harassment seriously, and we remain committed to providing a safe working environment for all employees,”said Mayor Bowser. “This action will assure our team members that we value their commitment to public service, and make clear that if they are sexually harassed, there are remedies.”

The order also requires each agency to have a dedicated Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer, HR Manager, or any other individual competent in EEO laws to review and investigate sexual harassment claims. This individual must investigate and issue findings as soon as practicable and within 60 days of reporting. All new employees are also required to take a course on sexual harassment within 14 days of being on-boarded, and existing employees must take a refresher course at least once every two years.

For more information on sexual harassment, how to file a complaint, and the protections and resources available to all employees and managers, visit dchr.dc.gov/sexual-harassment.”