Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps Safety Act of 2023
Impact
The implications of this bill are significant, as it restructures the oversight and accountability processes for JROTC programs across the nation. Schools will be required to develop clear processes for reporting rights violations and to notify students and parents about the voluntary nature of the JROTC program and the required informed consent for participation. Additionally, schools must implement biannual training programs focused on preventing and responding to incidents of sexual assault and harassment, which will enhance overall awareness and education on these critical issues.
Summary
SB1966, titled the 'Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps Safety Act of 2023', seeks to amend title 10 of the United States Code with a focus on increasing transparency and reporting mechanisms relating to sexual violence within the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) program. The bill mandates that any JROTC unit that fails to report allegations of sexual harassment or assault within 48 hours will face permanent suspension. This fundamental shift aims to hold educational institutions accountable for ensuring the safety and well-being of their students participating in the JROTC program.
Contention
Some notable points of contention surrounding SB1966 include debates on the adequacy of the proposed reporting mechanisms and whether they will effectively prevent sexual misconduct or simply create bureaucratic hurdles. Critics may argue that the burden of compliance could disproportionately affect smaller institutions that may struggle with the requirements of heightened transparency and reporting. Supporters, on the other hand, tout the necessity of these measures for protecting students and fostering a safer educational environment. The bill also calls for annual reports on allegations of discrimination and harassment, which demonstrates a proactive approach to monitoring and addressing issues in JROTC programs.
National Digital Reserve Corps Act This bill establishes a National Digital Reserve Corps in the General Services Administration (GSA) to address the digital and cybersecurity needs of executive agencies. The GSA must establish standards for reservist eligibility and must ensure reservists have the necessary resources and security credentials for service. Reservists must agree to serve for three years and for at least 30 days per year as an active reservist, with up to $10,000 in annual compensation; reservists who fail to accept an offered appointment or complete required duties are subject to fines. The GSA may cover the costs of continuing education for reservists to support their service. The Department of Labor must issue regulations that ensure the reemployment, continuation of benefits, and nondiscrimination in reemployment of active reservists. In August 2021, President Joe Biden established the U.S. Digital Corps within the GSA to support the technological needs of executive agencies, including cybersecurity needs. The corps offers entry-level positions through two-year fellowships, with the option to convert to full-time career positions after completion of the fellowship.
My Child, My Choice Act of 2023 This bill prohibits an elementary school from receiving federal education funds unless a teacher requests written parental consent prior to teaching a lesson specifically related to gender identity, sexual orientation, or transgender studies. In particular, the bill requires a teacher to request written consent from the parent of each student enrolled in the class prior to teaching the lesson. If a parent does not submit written consent to the lesson, then the school must provide the student with an alternative period of learning or study hall. Further, the teacher may not teach the lesson if the principal does not receive written consent from the parents of at least 50% of the students enrolled in the class.