Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) says the passing of the Crimes Legislation (Stalking and Harassment) Amendment Bill is a timely move by the Government and will positively impact the safety of elected members.

LGNZ Interim Chief Executive Scott Necklen says the legislation will give elected members another tool to combat abusive behaviour.

“We applaud Minister Goldsmith for recognising that legislative change was needed to combat the rising level of abuse and harassment that elected members face on a daily basis,” says Scott Necklen.

“We know that female elected members have been particularly targeted, and that families of councillors and council staff are also experiencing increasing harassment. We’ve heard cases of elected members or their family members being stalked, followed back to their homes by threatening individuals and verbally harassed outside their workplace.

“This is completely unacceptable. It’s had a severe impact on members, council staff and people standing as candidates — particularly during the local elections period.

"LGNZ has fought hard in this space, including making a submission on this Bill, so this is a win for all elected members. We’ll now work with elected members on how they can utilise this legislation to combat the abuse and harassment they receive, before it comes into force next May.”

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