WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Women's Defense League released a study on Tuesday documenting 53 workplace sexual harassment allegations made against at least 30 current and former House and Senate lawmakers over the past two decades. The organization said most of the accused lawmakers, who represent 13 states and Guam, have since left office, while nine continue to hold their seats.

According to the study, 77% of the allegations involved members of legislative staff, and almost all documented cases involved men harassing women. When allegations made outside the workplace and prior to election are included, the total rises to 137 accusations against 49 members of Congress. Sixty percent of allegations were made against Republicans and 40% against Democrats.

"Understand that what we're presenting are conservative public facing counts. The reality is much worse." said Emma Davidson Tribbs, founding director of the National Women's Defense League. She said only a third of victims ever go public with their accounts.

"These numbers understate the harm. They don't deny it." Tribbs said.

The release followed recent departures from Congress. Eric Swalwell, a Democrat and former frontrunner in California's governor race, resigned last week after reports emerged accusing him of sexual assault and misconduct. Tony Gonzales, a Texas Republican, resigned his House seat after admitting to an affair with a former aide who later died by suicide.

Lawmakers who resign can remove themselves from the House Ethics Committee's jurisdiction while keeping benefits such as pensions and privileges to enter the House floor. Tribbs said resignations alone do not address the underlying issue. "Resignation stops the immediate story, but it does not reform the system, and that's really why NWDL is pushing for consistent, long lasting policy reform." she said.

Cory Mills, a Florida Republican congressman, faces an ongoing investigation by the House Ethics Committee into allegations of financial misconduct, assault and sexual harassment, which he has denied. Lawmakers from both parties have called for his expulsion. The committee said, "The House Ethics Committee strongly encourages anyone who may have experienced sexual misconduct by a House member or staffer to get in touch."

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson addressed the issue of workplace protections. "We have a lot of mechanisms in place, but we're always open to making that safer and more secure, and I will lead that myself." Johnson said.