SC Senate poised to adopt first anti-harassment policy

The S.C. state Senate never has had a written policy that addresses harassment in the workplace.

But that is about to change.

A bipartisan committee soon will approve the Senate’s first anti-harassment policy, drafted to protect senators, Senate staffers, lobbyists and pages – typically college-aged women – from harassment in the workplace.

When adopted, it will join a state House policy already in effect for several years. However, unlike the House, the Senate Clerk’s Office says the Senate never has received a harassment complaint against a senator or employee.

“It’s a good policy,” said state Sen. Katrina Shealy, R-Lexington, one of only four female state senators.

While Shealy is not a member of the committee that drafted the policy, she was present for discussions. One highlight, she said, is the policy allows accusers to file a harassment complaint to someone other than their immediate supervisor, limiting the possibility of retaliation.

The policy does not require the full Senate’s approval, she said.

Shealy said it was prudent for the Senate to have its own anti-harassment policy, given how widespread allegations of sexual harassment in the workplace are and have been.

“This is the business we’re in now,” she said. “It’s so publicized now.”

Allegations of sexual harassment have spread throughout politics and Hollywood, ending the careers of men in state legislatures, movies and the media, including Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein and veteran journalist Charlie Rose.

Those stories, and others across the nation, required the Senate focus on battling harassment, Senate President Pro Tempore Hugh Leatherman, R-Florence, said last month.

“The people of South Carolina need to know that you can send your husbands or wives, sons or daughters to Columbia to work or serve and that they will be treated professionally and with respect,” Leatherman said. “If they are not, those responsible will be dealt with swiftly.”

This story was originally published January 22, 2018 at 4:16 PM.