Bill > S2978

This bill aims to address sexual violence on higher education campuses in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: 1. Requiring institutions of higher education to conduct sexual misconduct climate surveys every 4 years to gather information on reported and unreported incidents, student awareness of policies, and campus safety perceptions. 2. Establishing a task force to develop model questions for these surveys and provide recommendations on their content, timing, and application. 3. Mandating that institutions adopt comprehensive policies on sexual misconduct, including procedures for reporting and investigating incidents, providing support services, and disciplining those found responsible. 4. Requiring institutions to designate at least one confidential resource provider to assist students and employees in accessing information and services related to sexual misconduct. 5. Providing training requirements for those involved in the institution's disciplinary process for sexual misconduct cases. 6. Requiring annual reporting by institutions on the number of sexual misconduct allegations, findings of responsibility, and disciplinary actions taken. The bill aims to improve transparency, support, and accountability around addressing sexual violence on college campuses in Massachusetts.

Joint Committee on Higher Education (J), Senate Committee on Ways and Means (S)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2978