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Repercussions of Breaking Sexual Harassment Laws

Employment Repercussions: 

According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, “Your employer has a responsibility to protect employees from harassment.”

If your employer determines that you have been harassing others at work, you may face one or more of the following consequences:

  1. Verbal or written warning
  2. Counseling
  3. Transfer to another location or job
  4. Suspension
  5. Termination

These are just examples of the types of actions an employer can take against you. The best thing to do is not harass others at work. Act professionally and treat others the way you want to be treated.


Legal Repercussions: 

Victims of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace have the ability to file a lawsuit against the perpetrator of the sexual assault and/or against their employer (depending upon the situation).

If you choose to pursue legal charges against either party, you may receive the following monetary damages:

  1. Lost compensation
  2. Emotional distress
  3. Punitive
  4. Attorney’s fees

According to the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act. Penalties for sexual harassment include:  

  1. A fine of up to $5,000 per violation;  
  2. Discipline or discharge;
  3. Additional court-imposed fines or penalties

Please Note: If you have been Sexually Harassed in the Workplace, lawsuits should not be the first step. The first step is always to file a complaint with your employer/HR Rep.


Repercussions of False Reporting: 

According to the Office of the Legislative Inspector General State Officials and Employees Ethics Act, making a false report of sexual harassment is a Class A Misdemeanor. 

Making a False Report may result in: 

  1. Up to one year in jail and a fine up to $2,500 (Class A Misdemeanor)
  2. A fine up to $5,000 per incident of false accusation imposed by the Legislative Ethics Commission.