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Lawmakers propose code of conduct and stronger misconduct procedures for the next rules package
Summary
Several members proposed a code of conduct to prohibit sexual relationships between members and staff, strengthen investigatory resources, require clear training and reporting pathways, and impose meaningful consequences for violations.
Members of the House told the Rules Committee they want a clear, enforceable code of conduct to address misconduct between members and staff. Representative Scholten, speaking as vice chair of the Democratic Women's Caucus, urged prohibitions on inappropriate relationships with staff, timelier investigations, dedicated resources for inquiries, and in-person training to ensure employees and members understand standards and reporting options.
"Americans across the country are rightfully concerned about the scale of misconduct in this chamber," Representative Scholten said, and advocates urged the committee to include misconduct reforms in the next rules package. Other members described a package of roughly 14 specific rule changes being developed and said the goal is bipartisan accountability with due process for accused members.
The committee heard the proposals and will consider them alongside other modernization suggestions; no formal vote or draft rule was adopted at the session.
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