Bill > HB731

This bill creates a new section in Kentucky law to prohibit sexual harassment by legislators or legislative agents towards other legislators, legislative agents, or legislative branch employees. The bill defines sexual harassment comprehensively, covering a wide range of verbal, physical, and electronic conduct that creates a hostile work environment or impacts employment conditions. Sexual harassment is described as including unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, unwelcome sexual contact, lewd comments, demeaning or intimidating behaviors, and sexually suggestive communications or displays. The definition aligns with existing standards in Kentucky law, the Civil Rights Act, and guidelines from federal agencies like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Any violation of this prohibition by a legislator or legislative agent is considered ethical misconduct. The bill provides extensive examples of what constitutes sexual harassment, ranging from physical touching to electronic messages, and indicates that even a single severe incident can be considered harassment. This legislation aims to establish clear guidelines and protections against sexual harassment within the legislative branch of Kentucky's state government.

Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/25RS/hb731.html