Bill > B26-0029

This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for higher education institutions in the District of Columbia to address sexual misconduct, with a focus on student support, prevention, and institutional accountability. The legislation mandates that each institution employ at least two confidential resource advisors who will provide comprehensive support to students and employees, including information about reporting options, legal resources, medical services, counseling, and supportive measures. The bill requires undergraduate students to complete two trauma-informed sexual misconduct prevention trainings during their academic career, and establishes amnesty protections for students who report sexual misconduct, ensuring they will not be disciplined for minor conduct violations like drug or alcohol use that occurred in connection with the incident. Institutions must also provide annual training for personnel involved in sexual misconduct investigations, ensuring they understand trauma-informed responses and can handle complaints sensitively. The bill further requires institutions to develop detailed sexual misconduct policies, maintain resources for survivors, and submit comprehensive triennial reports to the Higher Education Licensure Commission detailing sexual misconduct reports, complaint outcomes, and confidential resource advisor activities. Non-compliant institutions may face civil fines up to $59,000 or 1% of their annual operating budget, with generated revenues directed to sexual misconduct resource providers. The legislation aims to create a more supportive, transparent, and survivor-centered approach to addressing sexual misconduct in higher education settings.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0029