AUSTIN, Texas -- The Texas House is seeking to take further steps to prevent sexual harassment in the Legislature.

Outgoing House Speaker Joe Straus announced Wednesday that a panel will be co-chaired by a Democrat and a Republican. Eight other lawmakers from both parties will be part of the working group.

"This is the next step in our effort to make sure that sexual harassment is not tolerated at the Texas Capitol," Speaker Straus, R-San Antonio, said. "Now that a stronger and more transparent sexual harassment policy is in place, this workgroup will recommend additional ways to make the legislative work environment safer."

In December, a House committee adopted new sexual harassment policies designed to make reporting easier. Straus said lawmakers have undergone anti-harassment training and their staff are also required to do so.

The Senate has announced its updating its policies as well, but hasn't yet announced a finished product.