New Jersey Assembly Bill A1918

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires institutions of higher education to establish hotline for victims of campus sexual assault.

Impact

The implementation of A1918 is expected to significantly affect state laws regarding campus safety and victim support services. By requiring universities to have a hotline, the bill aligns with ongoing efforts to address sexual assault on college campuses more effectively. Additionally, it will necessitate changes in institutional policies to ensure that the hotline is adequately promoted among students and staff, thus increasing awareness about available resources.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1918 aims to enhance the safety and support of victims of campus sexual assault by mandating institutions of higher education in New Jersey to establish a toll-free hotline. This hotline must be accessible 24/7 and staffed by trained individuals who can provide appropriate information and resources for survivors of sexual assault. The bill underscores the need for immediate access to supportive services and aims to create an environment where victims can seek help more readily and without fear.

Contention

While the bill is primarily aimed at improving victim support, there may be discussions surrounding funding for these hotlines and the availability of trained staff. Critics may raise concerns about the adequacy of resources and whether institutions can effectively manage the implementation given their existing commitments. Furthermore, the requirement to display hotline information prominently may generate debate on how best to ensure that students are informed while protecting victim anonymity.