Sexual Harassment Hits Close to Home.

AuthorGriffin, Jonathan
PositionTRENDS

Who's next? It seems that someone new is accused of sexual harassment or misconduct almost daily, including state legislators. At least 40 state lawmakers in 20 states, from across the political and geographic spectrum, have recently been accused of sexual misconduct or harassment.

Almost half of state legislatures already conduct some version of harassment training for their staff or members or both, usually during orientation at the start of session. In response to the current level of accusations, however, many legislatures have strengthened their policies and training. A few examples:

* The Arizona House adopted a formal policy regarding sexual harassment.

* The California Assembly began formal hearings on sexual harassment.

* Illinois passed a bill that requires all lawmakers and legislative employees to attend annual anti-harassment training.

* Washington's House staff began offering training for representatives.

* Maryland's legislative leaders updated the guidelines for reporting and tracking complaints against lawmakers.

* The Texas House added specific examples of...

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