The Prinz Law Firm, based in Chicago's Loop, received a $450,000 contract that took effect Sept. 21, according to state records. A spokesperson for Welch's office said the firm was retained "to assess culture within the office and make recommendations for improvements," and that the process is ongoing.

Attorney Kristen Prinz said her firm's role is not to investigate any specific allegation but to help the Office of the Speaker and the Clerk strengthen the workplace. "We will be gathering feedback from staff and recommending policy and process changes to further trust, engagement and productivity," Prinz said. "We are grateful to be a part of this effort towards making work better for the people who serve our state."

The review follows a legislative inspector general's report that confirmed Welch, a three-term speaker from Hillside, knew about a complaint against then-state Rep. Harry Benton nearly three years before additional accusations led the Plainfield Democrat to resign. During that period, Welch directed $1.4 million toward Benton's reelection campaign. Welch later said he felt obligated to support a caucus member because the initial complainant declined to file a formal complaint.

Welch has since expressed regret over his handling of the matter and apologized for social media interactions with the complainant that she said made her uncomfortable. He also created a House culture and accountability working group, but that step did not satisfy a bloc of Democrats who announced last week they would not support him for a fourth term as speaker. Welch then said he would step aside from the leadership post while remaining a rank-and-file lawmaker.

In a message to Democratic lawmakers and staff, Welch's office said the outside review is "intended to be as independent as possible" and that the speaker "will not be directing it or otherwise managing it." The message added that "a strong, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture is essential for everyone's success and long-term growth" and that such a culture requires regular evaluation.

The hiring of an outside firm echoes the tenure of Welch's predecessor, Michael Madigan, who was ousted from the speaker's office amid criticism over his inaction on sexual harassment complaints before his eventual federal corruption conviction.

Several Democrats are now competing to succeed Welch as speaker, and the maneuvering is expected to intensify when lawmakers return to the Capitol for the fall veto session.