The Sexual Harassment Investigation Integrity Amendment Act of 2025 aims to enhance the investigatory procedures for harassment complaints involving certain District government employees under the District of Columbia Human Rights Act of 1977. The bill mandates that the Mayor establish rules for the investigation, conciliation, and hearing of administrative complaints against District government agencies, officials, and employees. A significant addition to the law is the requirement that complaints involving specific high-ranking officials, such as mayoral appointees and employees who report directly to the Mayor or City Administrator, be referred to the Inspector General for investigation.
Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the Inspector General must hire independent counsel with expertise in confidentiality and sexual harassment law to conduct these investigations and produce findings. The investigations will not only address the specific complaints but also assess whether any District resources were misused and evaluate the broader workplace culture and management practices that may have contributed to the alleged discriminatory behavior. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure accountability and integrity in handling harassment complaints within the District government.