Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) will lead an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct by lawmakers on Capitol Hill, starting with a “slush fund” for workplace disputes, including claims of harassment. The 2018 law requires lawmakers to foot the bill for those expenses, but sets have been reopened amid scandal after Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) allegedly sent explicit texts to a staffer who died by self-immolation.
Burchett calls the probe a matter of transparency and plans to discuss settlement payouts at his third hearing since taking over as chairman. The investigation comes as other House Republicans, including those on the same subcommittee, have denounced Gonzales or called for his resignation over the scandal.
The 2018 law mandates public disclosure of settlements, eliminating confidentiality agreements signed by accusers. However, Congress remains plagued by allegations of misconduct, leading calls for mass disclosure. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) plans to force a vote on releasing all sexual harassment complaints held by the Ethics Committee.
Burchett’s probe will be conducted through his subcommittee, but he lacks subpoena power and has not discussed the matter with Rep. James Comer (R-KY), who oversees the panel as chairman of House Oversight and Government Reform.
Source: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/house/4473636/house-rebels-doge-investigation-sexual-misconduct-slush-fund