Summary of HRES 480

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HRES 480

Title: Requiring each Member, officer, and employee of the House of Representatives to complete a program of training in workplace rights and responsibilities each session of each Congress, and for other purposes.

Status: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

Introduced: June 05, 2025

Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HRES 480 is to mandate that all Members, officers, and employees of the House of Representatives undergo training focused on workplace rights and responsibilities. This training aims to enhance understanding of anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies, thereby fostering a safer and more respectful work environment within the House.

Key Provisions

1. Training Requirement:

   • All Members, officers, and employees of the House must complete a training program on workplace rights and responsibilities during each session of Congress.
   • The training will cover topics under the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995, specifically focusing on anti-discrimination and anti-harassment.

2. Definition of Employees:

   • The resolution extends the definition of "employees" to include interns (both paid and unpaid), participants in fellowship programs, and detailees from other federal offices.

3. Exemptions:

   • Individuals who have completed the required training during the new Member orientation prior to the start of a Congress are exempt from repeating the training in the first session of that Congress.

4. Completion Timeline:

   • Members, officers, and employees must complete the training and file a certificate of completion:
     • Within 90 days of the program's certification for those already serving.
     • Within 90 days of their start date for new Members, officers, or employees.
   • The Committee on House Administration may establish alternative deadlines for interns and those joining late in a session.

5. Compliance Mechanisms:

   • The Committee on House Administration is tasked with considering additional methods to ensure compliance with the training requirement.

Impact

• Who is Affected:

  • This resolution impacts all Members, officers, and employees of the House of Representatives, including interns and fellows.

• Workplace Environment:

  • By instituting mandatory training, the resolution aims to improve workplace culture and accountability, potentially reducing incidents of harassment and discrimination.

Legislative Actions

• June 5, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the House Committee on House Administration.
• June 9, 2025: The resolution was passed in the House without objection, and the motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

Sponsors

• Primary Sponsor: Bryan Steil
• Cosponsor: Joseph D. Morelle

This resolution represents a significant step towards ensuring that all individuals working in the House of Representatives are equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to maintain a respectful and compliant workplace.