Chaffetz Statement on Grand Canyon River District IG Report

WASHINGTON—Today, House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) issued the following statement after release of the Department of Interior (DOI) Inspector General’s (IG) report on misconduct at the Grand Canyon National Park’s (GRCA) River District. The report found evidence of a 15-year pattern of sexual harassment and hostile work environment in the GRCA. Additionally, complaints reported to managers and supervisors were not properly investigated or reported up the chain of command.

“This is another appalling example of how the current civil service system allows the wrong people to be insulated and protected. Supervisors and managers are failing in their management responsibilities and they should be removed. The culture of overlooking and even rewarding bad behavior is inexcusable. Congress must enact meaningful reforms to weed out those who can’t or won’t do their jobs. I’ve introduced two bills already this year and am preparing additional legislation to address these issues.  It is a privilege to work in government. Taxpayers deserve nothing but the best from their federal workforce.“