§ 4-1.3. Sexual harassment.

It shall be the policy of Halifax County that no employee shall engage in conduct that falls under the definition of sexual harassment indicated below. No personnel decision shall be made on the basis of granting or denial of sexual favors. All employees are guaranteed the right to work in an environment free from sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment is defined as: "Unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when (1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or education, (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic or employment decisions affecting the individual, or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's academic or work performance or creating an intimidating hostile, or offensive working or educational environment."

Sexual harassment does not include personal compliments welcomed by the recipient or social interaction or relationships freely entered into by departmental employees or prospective employees.

Upon receipt of a complaint alleging sexual harassment, an immediate and thorough investigation will be initiated to ascertain the facts in the case. Any employee determined to have engaged in conduct defined as sexual harassment is in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as well as NC General Statute 126-16, and will receive appropriate disciplinary action which may lead to dismissal.

Any employee of Halifax County who feels he/she has been sexually harassed may file a grievance through the channels outlined in the Halifax County Personnel Manual (Section 8).

(Amend. of 8-6-90)