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Sexual Harassment Training Now Required for Iowa House Members and Staff

Legislators and staff in the Iowa House of Representatives will be required to undergo sexual harassment training before the start of the next legislative session.

Legislators and staff in the Iowa House of Representatives will be required to undergo sexual harassment training before the start of the next legislative session.

The move comes as state officials grapple with the fallout of a sexual harassment and wrongful termination case that resulted in a $1.75 million settlement payment to a former Iowa Senate staffer.

However, House Republicans spokesman Colin Tadlock said the new training is not a direct result of that case and had been part of internal discussions for months.

"We strive to provide the best possible work environment for our employees and are always looking to make improvements," House Speaker Linda Upmeyer, R-Clear Lake, said in a statement. "Hiring a human resources professional and updating our sexual harassment policies help accomplish that goal."

Previously, House members and staffers were required to sign a form saying they had read the sexual harassment policy.

Caroline Cournoyer is GOVERNING's senior web editor.
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