ST. PAUL, MN – Today, State Rep. Jamie Becker-Finn (DFL – Roseville) announces that she will convene a new working group to address concerns about sexual assault and harassment at the State Capitol.
"We gave legislative leaders the benefit of the doubt that this issue would be taken seriously," said Rep. Becker-Finn. "Republican legislators have now gone on record voting against a formal task force to address sexual harassment at the Capitol. Although I would have preferred to work together on this important issue, we have waited over four months for meaningful progress and it is time to move forward."
Rep. Becker-Finn is proposing an informal working group to review policies, gather feedback from those impacted, and determine recommendations for changes to current policies, procedures and training. The working group will be comprised of employment law attorneys, human resources professionals, advocates and others who are seriously dedicated to problem solving.
"My colleagues have waited for meaningful action to make this a safe workplace for everyone, and that hasn’t happened,” said Minority Leader Melissa Hortman (DFL – Brooklyn Park). “I support Rep. Becker-Finn taking action to make sure all Minnesotans are safe from harassment at the Capitol. Republicans have not done anything yet, and it's past time for action.”
"The bottom line is that everyone who works at or visits the State Capitol should be able to do so free of harassment and assault," said Rep. Becker-Finn. "This type of behavior has gone on unchecked for decades. It's time to clean house."
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