VA seeks nominations for appointment to the Sexual Assault/Sexual Harassment Working Group

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs published a notice, May 6, in the Federal Register requesting nominations for a one-year appointment to the VA Secretary’s Sexual Assault/Sexual Harassment Prevention and Response Working Group.

This is required by the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D., Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020, Title V, Deborah Sampson, Subtitle III, Eliminating Harassment and Assault, Section 5303 (Public Law (P. L.) 116-315).

"Every VA patient, their families and caregivers, as well as sexual assault survivors, staff, visitors and advocates should feel safe in all VA facilities," said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. "All VA entities must be free of gender-based harassment. Forming the Sexual Assault/Sexual Harassment Working Group is a critical step in making sure that happens. VA is also partnering with Veteran Service Organizations, along with state, local and tribal organizations in support of Veterans and VA employees."

The working group is one of the many steps VA is taking to ensure a safe working environment, as well as a safe space to receive care and VA services. The group will be responsible for developing a plan of action for addressing changes at all VA levels to reduce sexual assault and gender-based harassment. It will also assist in the development of various media resources for VA and VSOs.

To view the notice and submit comments visit the Federal Register. The public comment period ends June 16.

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