The North Dakota House plans to take action today (Thursday) on the complaints against Rep. Luke Simons (R-Dickinson).
Simons has been accused of threatening and sexually harassing women at the state Capitol. Last week, top GOP leaders called on Simons to resign. He refused, denying the charges.
House Majority Leader Chet Pollert told the House the plan is to convene as a “committee of the whole” at 1pm. Pollert said he expects every member to be participating, either in person or remotely.
"I don't want to do this, but if there are folks missing, I will have a 'Call of the House,'" Pollert said.
Such a call would compel members to attend. It also gives the authority to the sergeant-at-arms to lock the chamber, preventing members from leaving.
Pollert said the Simons matter will be the only agenda item for that session.
"We have a duty as legislators," Pollert said. "And so, however long it takes, that's what we will be doing."
Reports have indicated a motion to expel Simons will be offered. It will take a two-thirds vote.
Simons has hired an attorney – and an on-line fundraiser has been established for his potential legal fees.
