The proposed bill, General Assembly Committee Bill No. 977, aims to enhance protections for students and employees at institutions of higher education who report incidents of sexual assault, stalking, or intimate partner violence. Specifically, it introduces a new subsection (i) to Section 10a-55m of the general statutes, which grants immunity from civil or criminal liability to individuals who report such incidents and participate in related investigations or disciplinary procedures. This immunity is contingent upon the absence of bad faith or malicious intent, and it does not protect against liability for perjury.

The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is designed to encourage reporting and participation in Title IX proceedings by alleviating fears of legal repercussions for those who come forward. The intent is to foster a safer environment for victims to seek justice and support within higher education institutions.

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