HARASSMENT, ASSAULT, AND MISCONDUCT: WHISTLEBLOWER ONLINE INTAKE FORM
Whistleblowers play a vital role in helping Congress to conduct its constitutionally mandated oversight responsibilities. Congresswoman Torres is committed to ensuring the Judiciary has systems in place to protect all employees at work. Through this form the office is interested in hearing directly from employees or former employees of the federal Judiciary about reports of sexual assault, harassment, or workplace misconduct, or additional information you think Congress must know. Your disclosures can make a difference reforming the Judiciary’s systems to prevent workplace misconduct. Congress has the authority to create, structure, and conduct oversight over the administrative functions of the lower courts, but not to interfere in judicial decision-making on active cases currently before the courts. Consequently, please do not submit pending federal cases before the court, classified information, or other information barred from release.
The right for public employees to communicate with Congress, in their private capacities, is established in the FirstAmendment of the U.S. Constitution. Further, federal employees have the right to petition Congress under 5 U.S. Code § 7211. However, individuals still take serious risks when they make allegations of wrongdoing. Moreover, employees of the judicial branch do not have standard whistleblower protections to challenge retaliation when they report misconduct.
We strongly recommend you consult with an attorney experienced in representing whistleblowers before you make a disclosure. The Office of Congresswoman Torres is here to try to provide you with resources should you need them. Please find a list of resources that may include nonprofit whistleblower support organizations and free or low-cost legal resources, including those with experience helping individuals dealing with sexual harassment here
If you wish to report misconduct, you may fill out the form below, contact us by telephone (202-225-6161), or email Disclosures.CA35@mail.house.gov. To better protect your communications, do not contact us using work resources or while you are working.
We will do everything we can to respect your confidentiality, and we will use your contact information only to follow up with you regarding your submission. You may submit a disclosure anonymously. However, please be aware that anonymous disclosures may limit our ability to respond to the information that you provide.
Legal Disclaimer: The information conveyed on this form is for general informational purposes only, and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Individuals should consult with their own private attorney with respect to any legal matter.