Rep. Yingling Backs Bill Requiring Sexual Harassment Training, Pledges to Continue Work to Address Harassment and Discrimination

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, joined members of the House on Tuesday in taking first steps to combat sexual harassment in the state Capitol by approving legislation to mandate sexual harassment training for legislators, legislative staff, and lobbyists and adopting a resolution committing to working to change a culture of harassment and discrimination in government and politics.

“I’m deeply troubled by allegations of sexual harassment regardless of where or when that harassment takes place,” said Yingling. “There’s no doubt that we all can do better to address this issue and ensure that every person who walks through the Capitol doors feels safe and respected. Sexual harassment training is only a first step to tackle this issue head-on.”

Yingling voted to pass Senate Bill 402 require all legislators, staff and lobbyists to complete yearly sexual harassment training. Additionally, lobbyists will be required to submit and enforce their own sexual harassment policies, just as all legislators do currently. He is also sponsoring House Joint Resolution 83, which resolves to change the culture that promotes harassment in the Capitol.

“The last few weeks in particular have demonstrated that sexual harassment is present in all industries and all walks of life,” Yingling added. “It’s unacceptable for anyone to feel anything less but safe and protected, especially in the workplace.”