Guidance for Agency-Specific Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Policies

This guidance provides agencies with direction to enable them to fulfill the goals identified in the Presidential Memorandum on “Establishing Policies for Addressing Domestic Violence in the Federal Workforce,” which was issued on April 18, 2012. As the nation’s largest employer, the Federal Government should act as a model in responding to the effects of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking in the workplace. Some agencies have already taken steps to address these issues. By building on these efforts, the Federal Government can further address the effects of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking on its workforce, promoting the health and safety of its employees and improving the quality of its service to the public. This guidance is divided into the following three sections: Section 1.0 provides definitions of key terms; Section 2.0 provides an overview of critical considerations for policy development; and Section 3.0 provides specific guidance on the main components of agency policies, including: Workplace Flexibilities, Disciplinary Actions and Legal Considerations, Training, Awareness, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and Building Safety.