LEGAL/POLITICS: “As the outcry against sexual misconduct ripples from Hollywood to corporations to Washington, D.C., it also is growing in a realm long plagued by such behavior—state capitols.
Allegations of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct by state lawmakers have surfaced in at least a dozen states, prompting investigations, changes in reporting and investigation protocols, and new or improved employee training. At least seven lawmakers face interim or partial suspensions from committees or leadership posts.
Reports and allegations of abusive workplace behavior have dominated headlines, and awareness of the problem is growing while tolerance for such behavior is wearing thin. Yet in U.S. statehouses, where dozens of women have recently alleged misconduct by male colleagues in some cases dating back years, corrective responses have been patchy.
Accused lawmakers have resisted calls to relinquish their elected seats, and many legislative leaders face criticism over how they have dealt with allegations. The range of reactions highlights how unaccustomed state legislatures are to acting on a problem that was once swept under the rug, according to lawmakers and current and former legislative staff, both men and women, in several states. ..
State legislatures from California to Rhode Island have been grappling with claims of sexual harassment or misconduct. Although no state lawmaker has been expelled, some face calls from colleagues and leaders to resign.
Most legislatures have procedures that can lead to expulsion. In a minority of states, voters can attempt removal with a recall petition. Such attempts have been largely unsuccessful, according to a National Conference of State Legislatures overview.”
-Nour Malas, “Fight Against Sexual Harassment Moves to Statehouses,” The Wall Street Journal online, Nov. 20, 2017 10:00am