Fed Acts Tough on Harassment with Zero Tolerance

The U.S. Federal Reserve Board addressed 11 sexual harassment allegations from 2020 to 2023, leading to disciplinary actions for nine employees, including four dismissals. Unlike formal EEO complaints, these cases highlight a zero-tolerance policy and underscore gaps in how federal agencies report such issues.

The U.S. Federal Reserve Board faced 11 sexual harassment allegations from 2020 to 2023, resulting in disciplinary actions for nine staff members, four of whom were dismissed, according to a document released to Reuters.

This rare disclosure offers a glimpse into the Fed's handling of harassment cases not amounting to formal EEO complaints. The Board issued "last chance" warnings and took action against others for "sexual harassment and other work concerns" based on data obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request.

While the Fed reported no formal EEO complaints during this period, the revelation promotes transparency and reflects the Board's zero-tolerance stance on harassment. The figures illustrate broader reporting challenges within federal agencies regarding sexual harassment incidents.

(With inputs from agencies.)