An Idaho lawmaker was the subject of a complaint for allegedly making inappropriate comments to at least two people during the 2017 legislative session.
According to a heavily-redacted document obtained by The Associated Press through a records request on Monday, Representative James Holtzclaw (R-Meridian) made a woman feel uncomfortable and asked her if -- and how -- she used the social media Snapchat app. A separate person says they told Holtzclaw that his “flirty comments” would not be tolerated.
Neither person was identified in the document and their ages and positions were unclear.
Holtzclaw, a three-term Republican from Meridian, did not immediately return a request for comment.
The document was sent to House Speaker Scott Bedke, who then forwarded it to Attorney General Lawrence Wasden.
Bedke says he addressed the complaints surrounding Holtzclaw immediately during the 2017 legislative session.
Bedke said Tuesday in a phone interview that he could not disclose details surrounding the case, but said that the complaint was addressed.
Bedke says the situation was a learning experience for everyone.
Bedke and other legislative leaders are planning a sexual harassment training session for all 105 Idaho lawmakers when they convene in Boise in January. Lawmakers undergo training on a variety of topics every year -- ranging from ethics to civility. This year legislative leaders are hoping not only lawmakers, but also lobbyists and other staffers attend to learn more about respectful working environments.
(by Kimberlee Kruesi, Associated Press)
