Print
Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
Published: 24 November 2017 24 November 2017

State representative pushes Leadership to take swift action on fixing policy weaknesses

LOS LUNAS, NM—Today Rep. Kelly Fajardo sent a letter to New Mexico House and Senate Leadership urging them to take stronger steps in addressing sexual harassment issues at the Legislature. "Training is not enough," Fajardo wrote, "and mandating training for only legislators is a minimal gesture at best."

Fajardo pointed out numerous weaknesses in the Legislature's current "No Harassment" policy and called for a complete overhaul of the document. Fajardo also listed many elements she would like to see included in a revised policy.

Fajardo encouraged legislative leaders to expand training, expand protections to include lobbyists, vendors, and visitors, and engage outside counsel in investigating harassment complaints. Fajardo also asked that the revised policy include a mediation option and mandatory counseling for those accused of violating the policy.

"The previous 'anything-goes' culture of the Roundhouse must end now," Fajardo wrote. "Mandating training is pointless without a strong, enforceable policy in place to protect everyone who visits Legislature." She continued, "I urge you to move swiftly to show that you take this issue of sexual harassment seriously. The eyes of New Mexico are on you."

A copy of Fajardo's letter is posted here. A link to the Legislature's current "No Harassment" policy is here.

###