Senate Democrats on March 25 proposed legislation to reform the process and procedures of addressing sexual harassment claims, and foster a safe work environment in the General Assembly.

The #MeToo PA General Assembly Act would establish procedures for keeping investigatory, prosecutorial and adjudicatory functions separate, as required under state law; establish procedures for communicating temporary regulations that are necessary to promptly implement the new procedures; and combine current settlement provisions with new provisions relating to the source of payment, personal liability of elected officials and payment of awards.

Pennsylvania Sens. Maria Collett, D-Montgomery, Tim Kearney, D-Delaware, Katie Muth, D-Montgomery, Steve Santarsiero, D-Bucks, and Lindsey Williams, D-Allegheny, are sponsoring the legislation.

“We need to implement and improve the procedures in which sexual assault and sexual harassment claims are addressed in our government,” Collett said in a statement. “This legislation allows us to do that.”

Muth said, “As a survivor and supporter of those who have come forward through the #MeToo movement, I believe it is imperative that legislation be put into action to correct serious issues within the process of addressing harassment claims in the General Assembly.”

Senate Democrats' announcement comes after two members of the General Assembly faced sexual misconduct allegations. State Rep. Brian Ellis, R-Butler, who according to media reports is under investigation in Dauphin County, resigned earlier this month. Meanwhile, Wolf Montgomery County Democratic leaders have called for Pennsylvania Sen. Daylin Leach, D-Montgomery, to step down because of his allegedly inappropriate response to sexual misconduct allegations against him. Leach has denied the allegations against him, sued his accuser and refused to resign.