Sens. Claire McCaskill (D-MO) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) have introduced the proposed Military Retaliation Protection Act. Details here. Excerpt:
The Military Retaliation Prevention Act would establish a separate offense under the Uniform Code of Military Justice for anyone who attempts to unfairly treat or punish a victim who formally complains of sexual assault. The act would boost transparency, bolster training for investigators and ensure that each of the military services adopts best practices for preventing retaliation.
It’s unfortunate that the threat of prosecution is necessary, but that’s the reality of a prevailing atmosphere that has discouraged victims from speaking out. Reports of retaliation remain stubbornly high even though the number of assaults has dropped and reporting by victims has gone up since 2014.
Separate from making retaliation a unique offense, the legislation gives whistleblower protection to service members who report assault or other violations of law or regulations.
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