Welch Continues to Combat Sexual Harassment Following Appointment to New Task Force

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – As a member of the newly created Task Force on Sexual Discrimination and Harassment, state Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, will work with both Republican and Democratic colleagues to eliminate sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace and enhance protections for victims who come forward to report their crimes.

“No one should become a victim of sexual harassment at their place of work, and it should never impact the direction of an individual’s career,” Welch said. “It is encouraging that men and women across the country are coming forward to finally address their crimes, but the work cannot stop there. It is my hope that this task force will bring about stronger policies that eliminate sexual harassment and discrimination from happening in the first place.”

House Resolution 687 creates the Task Force on Sexual Discrimination and Harassment. Welch will assist in conducting a thorough review regarding the consequences of sexual harassment and discrimination in both the private and public sectors. The task force will report those findings to the General Assembly in order to take legislative action.

Welch also supported Senate Bill 402, a recent measure to create additional protections for individuals who come forward and report their crimes. Additionally, the measure creates disciplinary actions for those found guilty of any misconduct and empowers an inspector general to review and study sexual harassment or discriminatory complaints.

“No one should be afraid to report the crimes made against them, and this task force will be able to develop ideas that create avenues for victims to seek justice,” Welch said. “What needs to happen is a change in the culture that breeds discriminatory behavior so that every man and woman can end sexual harassment once and for all.”