Lawmakers are considering further reforms to Congress’s handling of sexual misconduct after recent allegations and revelations about members’ personal relationships renewed scrutiny of workplace culture on Capitol Hill. The debate matters because critics argue that earlier reforms have not fully ensured accountability, transparency or safe reporting for congressional staff.

Potential changes include strengthening reporting procedures, improving protections for complainants and disclosing more information about misconduct settlements. A 2018 law made members personally responsible for settlement payments and introduced reporting requirements, but some lawmakers say gaps remain; recent calls have included releasing a consolidated record of House members involved in taxpayer-funded settlements.