On the recordNovember 15, 2022
I am looking forward to the fact that by the end of the week, the Speak Out Act will be signed into law. While these reforms to the nondisclosure agreements and forced arbitration agreements will only go so far, they will create a more even playing field for survivors of sexual assault and harassment. Thousands of people will be freed from the unfair burdens of NDAs, and I sincerely hope this brings justice and closure to those who need it. I also recognize that there is a lot more this Congress should do to support both workers and victims of sexual assault. We can't ignore the disproportionate power that most employers hold over their employees, which can often lead to unfair outcomes for workers. Whether it is NDA agreements that silence victims, contracts that undercut workers' pay or rights, forced arbitration clauses, or egregious noncompete agreements, there is much more work to do to guarantee an even playing field for all workers in this economy. I am proud of the work House Democrats have accomplished for workers this Congress. Although the Senate filibuster has greatly curtailed the scope of what we should do, Democrats and President Biden have secured multiple wins for workers over the past 2 years, and the Speak Out Act is another victory in that column. Madam Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support today's rule.
