SACRAMENTO – Assemblywoman Susan A. Bonilla (D-Concord) introduced legislation this year in response to the recent upsurge in stories of sexual harassment, abuse and rape across college campuses statewide. AB 2654, which is aimed at increasing awareness and student safety, was signed into law by the Governor Monday morning.
“When nearly one in every four female college students are reporting having experienced some form of unwanted sexual conduct, it is clear that we must be doing more,” said Assemblywoman Bonilla. “I thank Governor Brown for his support of this measure and validation of a serious problem that cannot be kept secret or swept under the rug,”
In light of the recent cases that have surfaced just in the last past year, AB 2654 could not have been signed at a better time. Whereas the 1960 Equity in Higher Education Act requires that each postsecondary educational institution in California have a written policy on sexual harassment, many students are often unaware of their school’s policy or have trouble accessing it. AB 2654 updates this law by requiring that each college and university publicly post to their school’s website, clear policies on sexual harassment. This policy must also be displayed in a prominent location in the main administrative building of each campus and must be distributed to all new students during orientation. In addition, the policy must include both on and off campus resources and remedies pertaining to prevention, response, and a timeline for reporting if the college or university does not already have one established.
“Far too many women are not reporting incidences of harassment and sexual misconduct out of fear, shame and the thought that nothing will be done,” continued Bonilla. “This bill is not only about reinforcing current policies as a deterrent to potential offenders, but more importantly, it helps change campus culture and lets students know that they are not alone. All students deserve to feel comfortable and confident in reporting any incidents they may experience or witness, knowing that disciplinary action will be taken.”
Assemblywoman Susan A. Bonilla (D-Concord) was elected in November 2010 and represents California’s 14th Assembly District, which includes Contra Costa County and Solano County.
