Rachel McClurg
Editor-in-Chief
Though they have not yet been implemented, there are some new Title IX regulations that are being proposed.
Title IX is a federal law that states, “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance,” according to the NCAA.
Roughly 14 new changes are being proposed regarding Title IX. One, for example, would require colleges to hold a live hearing where the parties would essentially be cross-examined, according to Title IX Coordinator Sherri Conard.
“Some of these proposed regulations will more than likely discourage individuals from coming forward,” Conard said. “Requiring colleges to hold a live hearing to resolve all reports of sexual misconduct, instead of allowing the investigator-only model, would turn schools into mini-courtrooms.”
The changes are being proposed for a few different reasons regarding the manner the college is allowed to handle things and the rights of the students.
“The proposed rules seek to ensure that all schools clearly understand their legal obligations under Title IX and that all students clearly understand their options and rights,” Conard said. “The provisions are intended to ensure transparency and consistency.”
Another new proposition will require schools to respond to every report of sexual harassment and to investigate the formal complaints, which, according to Conard, is a signed document by the complainant and the Title IX Coordinator.
If anyone wishes to report a Title IX violation or complaint, there are several things a student can do.
“If someone wishes to file a Title IX complaint, they can contact me, the Title IX Coordinator or report the incident to a mandatory reporter (full time faculty/staff),” Conard said. “A staff member [from the Family Life Center] is available on campus every Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the 1000 building Student Life Office, and at the Villas every Tuesday from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.”
Students can also visit Counselor Nancy Hamm or College Health if they would like the conversation to be confidential.