Slaughter Supports Bill to Empower Survivors of Workplace Sexual Harassment

CHICAGO – Businesses would be prohibited from asking employees to sign confidentiality agreements that limit their ability to speak out about instances of sexual assault and harassment under legislation supported by state Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago.  

“When an employee no longer feels safe where they work because of sexual harassment or sexual assault, they are in a uniquely vulnerable position,” said Slaughter. “Toxic bosses should not be able to bully survivors of workplace assault and harassment into agreeing to stay silent, which only allows bad behavior to continue.”

Slaughter recently voted to pass House Bill 3418, which restricts the use of non-disclosure agreements in workplace harassment cases. Under the measure, certain confidentiality provisions could still be used in a settlement agreement to protect an employee’s privacy. However, businesses would be prohibited from requiring survivors to sign a non-disclosure agreement that prevents them from speaking out about harassment.

“As a legislator, I firmly believe in passing laws that help protect members of our community,” said Slaughter. “This bill protects and empowers survivors of sexual assault and harassment, allowing them to tell their stories publicly if they so choose. I look forward to continuing the vital work to support survivors in our state and hold abusers accountable for their behavior.”