Texas House Bill HR664

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Requesting the governor to direct the Texas Rangers to investigate Baylor University.

Impact

The resolution seeks to draw attention to systemic issues at Baylor University regarding how allegations of sexual violence were managed and investigated. By urging a state-level investigation by the Texas Rangers, the resolution aims to ensure accountability and transparency surrounding these incidents. There are significant implications for state laws concerning the investigation of educational institutions and the handling of sexual assault cases. It aims to establish a precedent for rigorous scrutiny of how universities deal with such critical issues.

Summary

House Resolution 664 calls on the Governor of Texas to direct the Texas Rangers to investigate Baylor University regarding serious allegations of sexual assault and subsequent attempts to cover up these incidents. The resolution highlights alarming revelations about rampant sexual assaults involving football players at the university, with admissions of at least 34 players assaulting over 52 women in the last five years. It further points to a broader failure by the university to address a significant number of reported sexual assaults, with claims that more than 125 students have come forward with allegations of sexual violence.

Contention

This resolution raises important discussions around institutional responsibility and victim treatment within higher education. Opponents of the resolution may argue that it targets a singular institution without addressing the broader context of sexual assault in universities. The call for an investigation also reflects deeper societal concerns regarding the protection of victims and the integrity of institutional responses to allegations of sexual misconduct. The potential for political maneuvering around this sensitive issue may create additional contention among stakeholders, including the university administration, victims' advocacy groups, and legislators.