SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Guzmán’s bill to support survivors and strengthen higher education requirements when addressing sexual violence passed the Senate.
“We cannot allow sexual harassment to go unaddressed on our college campuses,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “If student survivors experience digital sexual harassment or otherwise, there must be protections for them.”
Guzmán’s bill would add definitions for sexual harassment and digital sexual harassment, requiring higher education policy regarding gender-based violence to address these major issues. The legislation would also specify that victims receive privacy protections when they meet with a campus confidential advisor.
In addition to survivor protections, the legislation would require higher education institutions to address retaliation in their policies and make supportive measures available as long as they are needed by a survivor. The bill provides guidance and gives examples of supportive measures, while ensuring that a particular course of study or major cannot be a reason to deny such measures. If an institution willfully fails to act in accordance with the policy, this legislation would create a civil cause of action, thus providing a mechanism of enforcement for survivor rights.
According to the American Psychological Association, campus sexual assault makes up the largest proportion of on campus crimes in the U.S., at 43%. Along with being a significant health and human rights concern, sexual violence can have a negative impact on academic performance. As of 2017, studies show up to 25% of female college students report being victims of sexual assault. Students who are LGBTQ+, individuals with disabilities and those from minority ethnic communities are at an elevated risk. These statistics indicate sexual harassment on higher education campuses is a widespread and systemic problem.
"The impact of sexual violence is a lifelong burden for survivors and we should be doing all we can--both to prevent these crimes from being committed and to protect survivors from retaliation when they come forward about their experiences," said State Representative Mary Beth Canty (D-Arlington Heights). "This legislation requires our higher education institutions to be better prepared to assist and protect students who have experienced these situations, ensuring they don't have to face the fallout alone. I'm glad to have worked with Senator Guzman on a measure so vital for Illinois' young people.”
“Our higher education institutions need to make sure they are not exposing student survivors to further risk when they seek help,” said Guzmán. “This legislation bolsters protections for survivors while making sure our higher education institutions provide adequate support.”
House Bill 4990 passed the Senate Higher Education Committee Wednesday.
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