LANSING, Mich., Feb. 4, 2026 — State Rep. Emily Dievendorf (D-Lansing) introduced several bills today aimed at protecting survivors of sexual violence and harassment. The legislation would prohibit non-disclosure agreements and provide for survivor confidentiality in cases of workplace harassment.
“The stories of survivors of sexual violence and harassment are theirs to share,” Dievendorf said. “Too often, settlements come with a demand for silence. Making silence a condition of settlement is a disservice to those who want to share their stories in order to help others, or as a part of their own healing journey.”
The bills also include a key provision to protect the identity of the person making a claim and any information that could lead to discovering their identity.
“Survivors should have the ability to make a choice about where, when and with whom they share their story,” Dievendorf added. “That means having the opportunity to maintain privacy around their experiences, which is why it is essential we protect the identity of survivors. Survivors cannot be an afterthought in society, and these bills are about supporting them, so their stories are heard, their privacy is protected and they are able to heal in whatever way is best for them.”
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