Manley Backs Measure to Make Reporting Sexual Harassment Complaints Easier

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In order to make sure sexual harassment and other ethics complaints are fully investigated at the State Capitol, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, recently supported legislation that increases accountability of the Legislative Inspector General (LIG) and the Legislative Ethics Committee (LEC).

“Over the past year, several brave women have come forward to share their stories about the sexual harassment that they have had to endure in Springfield,” Manley said. “Harassment, intimidation and discrimination can be a problem for both women and men, and should not be tolerated in any form on any level. It is important that we have a process in place that allows for an investigation to occur and is fair for both the survivors and those who are accused. These investigations are an important tool in understanding what actually took place, and will give us a better idea of steps we can take moving forward to prevent similar problems from arising.”

Manley co-sponsored House Bill 138, which was developed through bipartisan efforts in the House of Representatives and the Senate. The legislation makes several changes to the LEC Commission, including setting procedures for when a member of the commission must recuse themselves from a complaint. Additionally, the legislation makes the position of the LIG a permanent, full-time position to avoid vacancies in that position, a problem that has been of serious concern to individuals who have come forward and their allies. The measure also establishes reporting requirements for the LIG to inform complainants of the status of their case and provide a more detailed report to the General Assembly, which will include a breakdown of the types of cases that have been investigated. Finally, the legislation extends the period that someone can file a sexual harassment claim and allows lobbyist registration to be suspended if found guilty of sexual harassment.

“While this legislation focuses on issues related to state government, the reality is that sexual harassment and discrimination has negatively impacted lives in almost all sectors of life,” Manley said. “Whether it took place at school, in the workplace or within government, harassment has and continues to affect individuals. I encourage those who witness inappropriate behavior to speak up, and I hope that more organizations, both private and public, implement fair and responsible reporting policies that allow all voices to be heard.”