Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00980

Introduced
1/22/25  
Refer
1/22/25  

Caption

An Act Improving Safety On The Campuses Of Institutions Of Higher Education.

Impact

The proposed legislation is intended to create a more supportive and safer environment for students and staff. By requiring institutions to develop policies that address hate incidents, the bill encourages proactive measures to combat prejudice and discrimination. Each campus is expected to provide necessary training and to establish channels for reporting and investigating hate incidents, thereby promoting a culture of accountability and awareness in educational settings.

Summary

SB00980, titled 'An Act Improving Safety On The Campuses Of Institutions Of Higher Education,' seeks to enhance safety and prevent hate incidents on college campuses across the state. The bill mandates that each institution of higher education appoint a Title VI coordinator who will oversee compliance with the Civil Rights Act and manage procedures associated with hate incidents. This includes establishing training programs for faculty and staff to effectively respond to hate speech and other bias-related conduct on campus.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB00980 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Supporters view the bill as a vital step toward ensuring that all students feel safe and respected in their academic environment. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of training programs and the effectiveness of reporting processes, as some stakeholders may question how well these measures can mitigate hate incidents on campuses.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill may arise from debates about free expression versus the need for safety and inclusivity on campus. Opponents could argue that the bill might infringe on free speech rights under the guise of preventing hate incidents, potentially leading to challenges over how hate incidents are defined and addressed within academic contexts. The balance between fostering a constructive environment and upholding individual rights may become a central topic during discussions and evaluations of the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05340

An Act Allowing Third-party Victims To Participate In An Investigation Or Disciplinary Proceeding By An Institution Of Higher Education.

CT SB00408

An Act Concerning Free Speech On Campuses Of Institutions Of Higher Education.

CT HB05341

An Act Requiring Reporting Of Projected And Actual Revenues And Expenditures At Public Institutions Of Higher Education.

CT HB06567

An Act Requiring Public Institutions Of Higher Education To Establish A Policy Regarding Freedom Of Expression On Campus.

CT HB06101

An Act Concerning Tuition Waivers For Graduate Degree Programs At Public Institutions Of Higher Education.

CT SB00236

An Act Concerning A Fee Waiver At Public Institutions Of Higher Education For Certain Veterans And Members Of The National Guard.

CT SB00638

An Act Concerning A Fee Waiver At Public Institutions Of Higher Education For Certain Veterans And Members Of The National Guard.

CT SB01108

An Act Concerning Access To Reproductive Health Care By Students At Public Institutions Of Higher Education.

CT SB00014

An Act Assisting School Districts In Improving Educational Outcomes, Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Education And The Technical Education And Career System And Establishing Early Start Ct.

CT HB06565

An Act Concerning The Plan Of The Board Of Regents For Higher Education Concerning The Number Of Child Care Centers Near Campuses.

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