Senate passes measure ending forced arbitration in workplace sexual misconduct cases

WASHINGTON D.C. — Congress has passed one of the biggest workplace reforms in decades giving more power to victims of sexual misconduct at work.

The Senate passed the proposal called “Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act” on Thursday after the House passed it earlier this week.

It now goes to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

>> Arrest made in deadly shooting of Dayton teenager

Instead of forcing victims to go through lengthy and often secretive court proceedings known as arbitration, the proposal allows victims to bring their case to court if they choose to do so.

Lawmakers say many workers may not even know they had a clause in their employee contract prohibiting them from suing the company over harassment claims and this proposal puts a stop to that.

“This is a historic day,” said Gretchen Carlson, an outspoken advocate for victims of sexual misconduct.

Carlson praised the passage of the bill alongside Senate leadership.

Carlson has been fighting for change over the last five years following her harassment claims against the former head of Fox News.

“I could never have imagined five years ago after filing my harassment lawsuit against Fox News Chairman and CEO Roger Ailes that I’d be standing here today with such an amazing bipartisan victory,” said Carlson. “It’s going to help get companies on the right side of history. That’s for sure. But it will also stop the bad behavior because now the bad actors will know that women’s voices will be heard.”

>> Pothole damages a dozen cars on highway; how to avoid them and potentially get reimbursed for damage

The proposal had overwhelming bipartisan support in Congress.

“Survivors deserve a real chance at justice and that’s what this bill does,” said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), who introduced the bill.

“The idea that you’re going to sign away your day in court when you’re abused in the workplace –  those days are over,” said Sen. Lindsey Graham, a co-sponsor of the legislation.

Victims’ advocates are hailing it as a major step forward.

“Marching in the streets can inspire us,” said Carlson. “Editorials can open our minds. Hashtags can galvanize us but legislation is the only thing that lasts.”

©2022 Cox Media Group