The Latest: Legislators, staff expected to attend training

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) - The Latest on ethics and sexual harassment training at the South Dakota Legislature (all times local):

1:45 p.m.

South Dakota legislative leaders say all legislators and staff are expected to attend ethics, professionalism and sexual harassment training in January.

Senate Majority Leader Blake Curd said in a Monday statement announcing the training that the Legislature takes the issue of sexual harassment seriously, and it “will not be tolerated.”

Curd says he believes the training will be an invaluable and educational experience.

Senate Democratic leader Billie Sutton says South Dakota residents expect and deserve a government that’s respectable and honorable.

An aide to Gov. Dennis Daugaard says he supports the Legislature’s decision to take the step.

The training comes after the Argus Leader and other news outlets reported on women who experienced sexism and harassment related to the male-dominated statehouse.

The upcoming 2018 legislative session begins Jan. 9.

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12:52 p.m.

South Dakota’s state Senate Republican leader says sexual harassment training will be conducted for legislators and staff.

Senate Majority Leader Blake Curd tweeted Monday that the Legislature takes the issue of sexual harassment seriously, and “it will not be tolerated.”

The Sioux Falls Republican’s tweet says the training will occur in January. Curd didn’t immediately respond to text or telephone messages from The Associated Press seeking more information.

The move comes after the Argus Leader and other news outlets reported on women who experienced sexism and harassment related to the male-dominated statehouse.

The articles came after a former lawmaker and lobbyist shared stories of harassment and assault.

A state lawmaker who admitted to having sexual contact with two interns also resigned earlier this year.

The upcoming 2018 legislative session begins Jan. 9.