A former interpreter for the deaf for the Capitol Guide Service sued, claiming that she was the victim of sexual harassment and disability discrimination in that the Defendant threatened her health and the health of her unborn child by not allowing her to work in a smoke-free environment.  She is also seeking $4 million in damages because her son was born prematurely and has respiratory problems, including asthma.  She also sued the Sergeant-at-Arms of both the Senate and the House of Representatives and the Office of the Architect of the Capitol.  The Plaintiff blames her exposure to smoke on the job for her son’s condition.  Other counts allege violations of the Americans With Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as well as constructive discharge and intimidation and reprisal.  See Bradley, J., “Former Hill Guide Sues, Alleging Sexual Harassment,” Roll Call, April 28, 1997, 20.

On October 21, 1997, the District Court (Kessler, J.), at 982 F. Supp. 35, 1997 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 16464, dismissed the case as to all the Defendants except the Capitol Guide Board.  The Court ruled that, as to those other defendants, Moore had not exhausted her administrative remedies as required by the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. secs. 1301-1438).  The action continues as to the Capitol Guide Board.

Case No. 1:97CV00823 (U.S.D.C.).