* Press release…

Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch released the following statement:

“I thank the Legislative Ethics Commission for releasing this report and the Legislative Inspector General for conducting a thorough, independent investigation. The report reaffirms confidence that our office acted responsibly—following legal guidance, respecting the wishes of those who came forward, and taking decisive action as additional information established a pattern of misconduct.

“We know that even when established procedures are followed, we have a responsibility to ask whether those procedures are strong enough, clear enough, and responsive enough to protect people—especially women who may fear that speaking out could jeopardize their careers, relationships, or standing within this institution. This report must represent more than an accounting of what happened. It must serve as a catalyst for meaningful, structural change. If there are gaps in our policies, our laws, or our workplace practices, then it is our duty to close them. The work has already begun. My office will work with all members of the House to explore creating a centralized human resources office to assist all members as employers and support their district office employees, and we will bring in an outside expert to review this case and make additional recommendations. We look forward to bringing together legislators, advocates, workplace experts, and other stakeholders to identify stronger protections, streamline reporting processes, improve support for those who come forward, and ensure greater clarity and accountability at every level. Women are leaders championing issues that move us all forward, and when women thrive in the workplace, we all thrive.

“We will work together to strengthen our laws, improve our policies, modernize our practices, and continue building a General Assembly worthy of the trust placed in it by every employee, every legislator, and every Illinois resident we are privileged to serve.”

…Adding… From earlier this month…

Welch previously said McCuskey’s report will provide “a full and accurate account of the steps my office took to support those who came forward.

Um, I didn’t actually see much of that in the report.

…Adding… Gov. Pritzker’s office…

“Governor Pritzker believes the release of the Legislative Inspector General’s report on former Representative Benton’s actions is the first step toward transparency and accountability, but that it is clear the General Assembly has more work to do. No one should fear any form of harassment in the workplace, and everyone deserves access to resources and recourse if they are faced with inappropriate behavior. The House now has a responsibility to resolve any unanswered questions, strengthen its harassment prevention and reporting procedures, and hold itself to the high standard the people of Illinois expect and deserve.”