In late May, the California State Legislature passed a package of twelve bills designed to identify, prevent, and punish sexual harassment in California's colleges and universities. It's hoped that the bills, based on a fairly damning report published by the Assembly Higher Education Committee in February, will address alleged deficiencies in how California's higher education institutions handle Title IX matters. But will the bills really make campuses safer – or could they simply lead to more sexual misconduct and discrimination accusations? Our attorneys consider this question below.

Are you facing Title IX allegations in CA? Your academic future could be at stake. Don't delay a moment longer – reach out online or call the Lento Law Firm now at 888.535.3686 to retain us.

Title IX and the “Call to Action” Package

Title IX protects students, faculty members, and staff from gender-based discrimination. As a federal law, it affects all higher education institutions receiving federal funding – schools which don't comply with their Title IX obligations will lose their funding.

Although Title IX concerns discrimination, it's now often associated with sexual misconduct and sexual harassment. Recently, concerns have been raised about whether CA colleges and universities are doing enough to:

• Detect sexual harassment and discrimination
• Encourage victims to report incidents on campus
• Promote a safe and inclusive environment for all staff, students, and faculty members

In response, the Assembly Higher Education Committee proposed a series of bills, a so-called “Call to Action,” forcing schools to take their Title IX responsibilities more seriously in exchange for federal funding. The proposals include the following:

• Compelling schools to actively report on the steps they're taking to protect their students and staff from gender-based discrimination and harassment
• Provide more support to students and faculty during investigation and adjudication procedures
• Having more transparent systems in place for reporting and investigating Title IX complaints

Consequences of Title IX Allegations

Title IX accusations can be devastating. They can ruin an otherwise promising academic career and professional future. And as California colleges and universities face increasing pressure to address Title IX complaints, there's a real risk of schools becoming overzealous in their approach to compliance. Students could be at risk from a lack of due process as schools attempt to show how seriously they take Title IX rules and policing accusations, and they may face increasingly more severe punishments – including suspension or expulsion.

How the Lento Law Firm Can Help Students Facing Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Accusations

Every student deserves a chance to defend themselves against Title IX accusations. And that's where the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team comes in. We will stand with you through every Title IX allegation – you will not face this battle alone. From liaising with school officials to robustly defending your rights to due process, we are on your side every step of the way. Once you retain us by calling 888.535.3686 or reaching out online, we'll immediately get to work on your behalf. Take back control of your Title IX problem. Contact the Lento Law Firm immediately.