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N.J. Gov. Murphy enacts new rules for sexual misconduct investigations

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has announced changes in how the state handles sexual misconduct allegations following his administration's problematic response to a state worker's sexual assault complaint against a campaign official.

FILE - In this Jan. 15, 2019, file photo, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy delivers remarks during his first State of the State address in Trenton.
FILE - In this Jan. 15, 2019, file photo, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy delivers remarks during his first State of the State address in Trenton.Read moreJulio Cortez / AP File

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has announced changes in how the state handles sexual misconduct allegations following his administration's problematic response to a state worker's sexual assault complaint against a campaign official.

The Democratic governor announced the expanded procedures Tuesday night. NJ.com reports they'll apply to people who work for the governor in the transition period, as well as new job applicants.

Katie Brennan, chief of staff of the housing finance agency, has accused former state official Albert Alvarez of sexually assaulting her in 2017 when they were working on Murphy’s campaign. Alvarez has denied wrongdoing.

Brennan says Murphy's team botched its response to her allegations. She is suing the state.

Murphy has defended his administration's response, but ordered an internal probe.

Prosecutors declined to bring charges against Alvarez.