Assembly Approves Cervantes Bill to Strengthen Sexual Assault Policies on College Campuses

(SACRAMENTO) – Today, the Assembly unanimously approved Assembly Bill 1000 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Corona). This bill would require higher education institutions to review and update written procedures and protocols related to sexual assault and harassment each academic year in collaboration with sexual assault counselors and representatives of students, faculty, and staff.

The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) requires universities to comply with Title IX by establishing procedures to promptly and equitably resolve complaints of sexual assault and or misconduct on their campuses. Under current law, public colleges and universities are required to take specific actions to prevent and address sexual harassment and sexual violence, which includes adopting and implementing a written procedure or protocols relating to sexual assault. However, these institutions are not required to review or update such policies on a frequent basis.

“It is important that our higher education institutions include much needed perspectives and fundamentally shift their approach to sexual assault procedures and protocols. Allowing sexual assault counselors, students, faculty, and staff to contribute to the policy review process can further improve sexual assault policies in its ongoing prevention and response efforts,” said Assemblymember Cervantes. “By requiring that sexual assault policies be updated on an annual basis, Assembly Bill 1000 will serve as an important first step toward having these vital voices heard and effectively responding to sexual assault on college campuses.”

The bill will next be sent to the Senate to await a hearing by a Senate policy committee. You can find more information about AB 1000 here.

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Sabrina Cervantes proudly represents the 60th District of the California State Assembly, which encompasses the cities of Corona, Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Norco, a portion of Riverside, and the unincorporated communities of Coronita, El Cerrito, and Home Gardens. Cervantes serves as Chair of the Assembly Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy.