SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The Latest on efforts to prevent harassment in the New Mexico Legislature (all times local):
2:00 p.m.
New Mexico state lawmakers are taking anti-harassment training for the first time since 2004.
Human resources consultant and attorney Edward Mitnick of Massachusetts on Monday led lawmakers through lessons about harassment policies and how to create a culture of mutual respect in the statehouse. He says harassment often is about people abusing their power and authority over others.
The training is part of an effort to make the Capitol work environment safer amid a nationwide debate over sexual misconduct.
The two-hour class was mandatory for the Legislature's 112 lawmakers. Legislators signed in as the training session began.
The Legislature also is in the process of revising its anti-harassment policies after women began breaking their silence about sexual misconduct and harassment in the Statehouse.
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New Mexico lawmakers are taking steps to prevent sexual misconduct and harassment at the state Capitol on the day before the Legislature convenes.
Lawmakers were scheduled to take mandatory anti-harassment training on Monday from a human resources consultant. Similar training was last offered in 2004.
A panel of leading lawmakers also is weighing revision to the policy against sexual misconduct and harassment in the Statehouse and procedures for reporting violations.
Female lobbyists and elected officials have said widespread sexual harassment at the Capitol has gone unchecked under current procedures.
A draft of the new policy spells out in greater detail what behavior constitutes harassment. It prohibits behavior that a reasonable person would find intimidating, demeaning or coercive. Any sanctions against lawmakers ultimately are decided by the House or Senate.