Indiana House Adopts Sexual Harassment Policy

The Indiana House adopted a new sexual harassment policy Thursday.

Legislation passed in 2018 mandated the creation of policies for both chambers in the midst of the #MeToo movement.

The House rules create a definition of sexual harassment and govern how the Ethics Committee will investigate claims. It also ensures those who bring sexual harassment claims are protected from retaliation. And it bars all sexual contact – even consensual – between legislators and interns.

Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) says the policy was a bipartisan effort.

“Making sure that we have a decision that protects the institution but also provides justice to an individual who would come to the Ethics Committee, asking for help when they are being harassed,” Errington says.

The Senate adopted its own version of a sexual harassment policy earlier this session.