Texas House Bill HB617

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to a study and report by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board on the response by certain public and private institutions of higher education to reports of sexual assault at those institutions.

Impact

If enacted, HB 617 would amend the Education Code by adding provisions specifically targeting the need for transparency and accountability in how educational institutions handle sexual assault cases. The requirement for a comprehensive report outlining policies and responses is expected to generate better monitoring of existing practices and drive policy changes aimed at supporting victims. This could lead to an increased emphasis on fostering a safer environment for students across Texas colleges and universities.

Summary

House Bill 617 aims to address the issue of sexual assault at postsecondary educational institutions in Texas. The bill mandates a study to be conducted by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, focusing on how certain public and private institutions respond to reports of sexual assault. This includes identifying policies that may deter students from reporting incidents or that obstruct the investigations of such reports. The study's findings are intended to guide lawmakers in understanding and improving campus safety measures related to sexual assault allegations.

Contention

Discussion around the bill may center on the responsibilities of educational institutions in protecting students and addressing their needs post-assault. Stakeholders, including advocates for sexual assault survivors and educational leaders, might express differing opinions on the practicality of implementing such a study, its potential impacts on institutional funding, or the effectiveness of existing policies. Additionally, considerations could arise regarding privacy concerns for both students who report incidents and the institutions under scrutiny.