Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB808

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a statewide task force to address sexual assault occurring on the campuses of public and private institutions of higher education.

Impact

The establishment of this task force has the potential to significantly enhance state laws related to campus safety by reviewing existing federal regulations concerning sexual assault, including Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Act. Furthermore, it mandates that the task force develop comprehensive policy recommendations tailored for higher education institutions that outline protocols for responding to sexual assault claims. These recommendations aim to foster a safer campus environment and provide structured victim support services.

Summary

House Bill 808 aims to establish a Task Force on Campus Sexual Assault, which is designed to address and mitigate incidents of sexual violence occurring within the campuses of both public and private institutions of higher education in Texas. This bill proposes a structured approach that includes the appointment of task force members from various sectors such as educational institutions, advocacy organizations, and legal entities related to sexual assault. The composition of the task force reflects a commitment to inclusive representation, featuring members such as survivors of sexual assault, counselors from rape crisis centers, and legal experts in this domain.

Reporting

The bill requires the task force to prepare and submit periodic reports detailing their findings and recommendations. By ensuring transparency and accountability, the task force will engage with the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the speaker of the house to inform legislators about the state of sexual violence on campuses. This reporting structure aims to facilitate ongoing dialogue and legislative adjustments to enhance student safety.

Contention

While the intent of HB 808 is generally seen as positive by advocates for victims' rights, there may be points of contention regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the proposed guidelines. Opponents might argue that establishing another layer of bureaucracy could lead to delays and potentially complicate existing processes for addressing sexual assault. Additionally, concerns may arise regarding the adequacy of resources allocated to support the task force's initiatives, especially in light of varying institutional capabilities across Texas.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1401

Relating to the rights of victims of sexual assault and to certain procedures and reimbursements occurring with respect to a sexual assault or other sex offense.

TX HB2668

Relating to the rights of victims of sexual assault and to certain procedures and reimbursements occurring with respect to a sexual assault or other sex offense.

TX SB1402

Relating to the composition, continuation, and duties of the Sexual Assault Survivors' Task Force, compensation for task force members and certain other task force participants, and establishment of a mandatory training program for persons responding to reports of and treating survivors of child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault.

TX HB4058

Relating to the use of opioid antagonists on the campuses of public and private schools and institutions of higher education and at or in transit to or from off-campus school events.

TX HB2670

Relating to the composition of the Sexual Assault Survivors' Task Force and to compensation for task force members and certain other task force participants.

TX HB2650

Relating to the continuation and duties of the Sexual Assault Survivors' Task Force and establishment of a mandatory training program for peace officers on responding to reports of child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault.

TX HB2208

Relating to the inclusion of the National Sexual Assault Hotline on certain student identification cards issued by a public institution of higher education.

TX SB2165

Relating to the inclusion of the National Sexual Assault Hotline on certain student identification cards issued by a public institution of higher education.

TX HB3627

Relating to signs posted by public institutions of higher education to facilitate the reporting of and to prevent incidents of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.

TX HB940

Relating to the establishment of the private child care task force.

Similar Bills

CA AB850

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TX SB174

Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.

CA AB1344

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Act of 2009.

NJ S3566

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A3422

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A5181

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

CA AB70

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

CA AB3167

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009: highly qualified private nonprofit institution.