On April 27, the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee passed several bills, by voice vote, including the Maritime Authorization and Enhancement Act (S. 2829), sponsored by Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE).
As amended, the measure would direct the superintendent of the United States Merchant Marine Academy to prescribe a policy on sexual harassment and sexual assault applicable to the cadets and other personnel of the academy.
The measure also would require cadets to receive sexual assault training during the first week at the academy and training on the prevention of sexual harassment and assault twice a year.
Additionally, the legislation would require that any information disclosed by a victim of sexual assault to an advocate remain confidential.
