Stop Sexual Assault and Harassment in Transportation Act (H.R. 5139)

APFA endorsed this important piece of legislation which aims to address incidents of sexual assault and harassment in multiple modes of transportation. The bill requires certain transportation carriers, including passenger airlines, to establish formal policies, training, and reporting structures regarding sexual assault and harassment. It also requires the DOT to collect information on the number of sexual assault or harassment incidents reported by these entities and make this information publicly available.

“In transportation, the number one priority is safety. That means not only getting the traveling public to their destination safely, but also ensuring their safety throughout the trip,” said Chairman DeFazio. “Unfortunately, sexual assault and harassment occurs all too often to the employees of transportation providers and individuals who are traveling, and more must be done to protect them.”

“Sexual harassment and assault are unacceptable anywhere and under any circumstances. In aviation, where Flight Attendants are responsible for the safety of passengers, any type of sexual assault or harassment must be reported, and when appropriate, prosecuted. Passengers and crewmembers alike deserve this protection. We urge the prompt consideration and passage of this common-sense bill. Chairman DeFazio has been a longtime champion of the Flight Attendant profession and we deeply appreciate his action on this issue.” -Lori Bassani, Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) National President