Having a common-sense dress code must remain separate from allegations of "victim-blaming" and "a culture that excuses sexual violence."
Sadly, some unfortunate comments linking apparel to inappropriate behavior have ignited a controvery regarding operations of the Missouri House of Representatives.
A House committee is exploring changes to its internship program in the wake of Speaker John Diehl's resignation. The Republican from Town and Country resigned after admitting he exchanged sexually suggestive text messages with a 19-year-old House intern.
After the committee chairman distributed a list of suggested changes, some House members recommended changes to the House dress code.
Adopted by the House in 2013, the dress code, Rule 94, reads: "At all times when the House is seated, proper attire for gentlemen shall be business attire, including coat, tie, dress trousers and dress shoes/boots. Proper attire for women shall be dresses or skirts or slacks worn with a blazer or sweater and appropriate dress shoes/boots. This rule shall apply to all members and staff on the floor of the House and lower gallery."
That's a common-sense dress code, not unlike many in the private sector.
The controversy arose after state Rep. Bill Kidd, R-Independence, suggested: "Intern dress code." His idea was endorsed by state Rep. Nick King, R-Liberty, who said: "Removing one more distraction will help everyone keep their focus on legislative matters."
Among those who pounced on the comment was U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill. The Democrat wrote in a letter to Kidd: "Victim-blaming in the context of sexual violence is as old as the crime itself."
Later, she added: "And I refuse to stand by idly while any suggestion is made that victims of sexual harassment in the Missouri State Legislature is the responsibility of anyone other than the legislators themselves."
She is correct.
House Speaker Todd Richardson, who replaced Diehl, moved quickly to quash the controversy. The Republican from Poplar Bluff gave assurance the House dress code will remain unchanged.
Good.
A dress code is a professional standard in the workplace. Similarly, professionalism must guide workplace behavior, in both the private sector and among all branches of government.