Springfield, Ill. – Governor J.B. Pritzker called on the Illinois House of Representatives to strengthen its sexual‑harassment reporting and response processes on Friday, citing the recent departures of two speakers amid harassment allegations. “Every company, every non‑profit, virtually everybody I know has developed a process for their institutions to deal with these things,” the governor said, adding that the House should be no different.
Recent speaker turmoil highlights need for reform
The governor’s remarks came after Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch (D‑Hillside) announced he will not seek a fourth term. Welch’s tenure has been marred by accusations that he mishandled alleged harassment by a former member and that he himself behaved inappropriately. Earlier, former longtime speaker Mike Madigan’s exit was shadowed by a chief of staff accused of making sex‑tinged remarks and a male staffer alleged to have mistreated a female member whose campaign he was running.
Pritzker emphasized that the selection of the next speaker is a matter for House members, not the governor, but he stressed that the chamber must “solidify its procedures” to ensure all members, staff and visitors feel safe.
Governor also addresses Bears stadium proposal
When reporters asked about a new stadium for the Chicago Bears, Pritzker said the decision rests with the team. “There is a bill being put together that gives the Bears the opportunity to choose where they want to build a stadium in Illinois, and then it’s going to be up to them where it goes,” he explained. The proposal could involve a stadium authority that might locate a new facility in Chicago, on Bears‑owned land in Arlington Heights, or elsewhere in the state.
The governor noted that the Bears have not yet communicated specific preferences to Illinois officials. While Indiana leaders continue to court the team with offers to move to Hammond, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and Bears president Kevin Warren have kept meeting with Illinois lawmakers.
Legislative outlook
Both chambers of the General Assembly have already passed separate Bears‑related bills during the spring session, though each bill addresses only its own chamber’s concerns. A combined bill could be considered during the upcoming fall veto session, scheduled for the weeks surrounding Thanksgiving.
Illinois lawmakers and the governor are now faced with two distinct challenges: reforming the House’s internal harassment policies to protect employees and constituents, and navigating the complex negotiations surrounding a potential new home for the Bears. Both issues have significant implications for the state’s reputation, workplace safety, and economic development.
As the House works to adopt clearer reporting mechanisms, advocacy groups have urged swift action to prevent further scandals. The governor’s call for procedural reform aligns with broader efforts across the nation to ensure safe, accountable workplaces in government institutions.
Original reporting: Capitol City Now (WTAX 1240 Springfield) — read the source article.
