Seemingly daily harassment allegations being lodged against elected officials, high-level executives and public figures require municipalities to promptly stop this abhorrent behavior and its costly impact on morale, productivity and public perception.

Step 1: Implement an Anti-Harassment Policy

Implementation of an effective policy prohibiting illegal harassment and discrimination is an essential element of a prevention strategy that can preclude municipal liability. See EEOC, Promising Practices for Preventing Harassment. The policy should prohibit unlawful behavior based upon any characteristic protected by applicable law,[1] regardless of whether by or toward an employee, applicant or constituent, and clearly explain what is prohibited and why. Victims should be encouraged to report conduct that could eventually become prohibited harassment, and be encouraged to participate in related investigations. While confidentiality cannot be guaranteed, it should be provided consistent with a thorough investigation. The policy should also prohibit retaliation against complainants and investigation participants.

Step 2: Disseminate the Policy