Bill > H3249

This bill establishes two new entities to combat sexual assault on college and university campuses in Massachusetts: the Massachusetts Assault Review Board and the Massachusetts Task Force to Combat Sexual Assault. The Assault Review Board, chaired by the commissioner of higher education, will consist of 12 appointed members and will review and monitor assault prevention and response proceedings at public and independent higher education institutions, and will maintain a database of best practices. The Task Force, chaired by the attorney general and composed of 14 members appointed by the governor, will develop and recommend protocols for responding to sexual assault on campuses, including best practices for campus officials, law enforcement collaboration, policy revisions, prevention programs, reporting encouragement, and accessibility of services. Both entities are mandated to meet quarterly and will receive staff support from various state offices. The Task Force is also required to file a report with state officials by February 1, 2017.