Democratic leader Petersen asks Iowa Senate GOP to release details of sexual harassment investigatio

Democratic leader Petersen asks Iowa Senate GOP to release details of sexual harassment investigation

Iowa Senate Democratic Leader Janet Petersen asked Senate Republicans Thursday to release the findings of an internal investigation of sexual harassment that was prompted by jury verdict that led to a $1.75 million settlement with a former GOP caucus staffer.

Petersen wrote to Senate Majority Leader Bill Dix, R-Shell Rock, and Senate President Jack Whitver, R-Ankeny, saying the Iowa Legislature received a "black eye" as a result of the jury's decision.

The lawsuit was filed by former Senate GOP Communications Director Kirsten Anderson, who was fired in May 2013, just hours after she filed a complaint alleging a toxic work environment fraught with sexual harassment.

"Since the taxpayers are on the hook for this $1.75 million settlement, the findings of this investigation should not be kept secret," Petersen said. "Releasing the findings of your investigation would be the first step in making sure the Legislature is a safe and welcoming environment for all employees, protecting Iowa taxpayers, and protecting the rights of those who raise concerns about harassment."

Read more: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2017/11/16/democratic-leader-petersen-asks-iowa-senate-gop-release-details-sexual-harassment-investigation/872190001/