Sexual harassment and assault allegations against celebrities and national politicians have also led to claims against people in state elected office, which is forcing state legislatures around the country to grapple with whether and how to change the way they handle these complaints.

In Ohio, for example, a female employee of the Ohio Legislative Service Commission said former Republican state Sen. Cliff Hite made sexual advances toward her and offered her sex. Hite resigned after the staffer filed a complaint.

Recommended Stories

GOP lawmaker suggests formal ban on sexual relations between members, staff

Jackie Speier details millions of taxpayers dollars spent in sexual harassment claims on Capitol Hill

House Ethics chair ‘not aware’ of sexual harassment complaints against two lawmakers