House Bill No. 7100 requires institutions of higher education in the state to enhance their policies regarding the disclosure of information to victims involved in Title IX proceedings related to sexual assault, stalking, and intimate partner violence. The bill repeals and replaces subsection (b) of section 10a-55m of the general statutes, effective July 1, 2025. Key provisions include the obligation for institutions to inform students and employees about affirmative consent, reporting procedures, and victims' rights to access support services. The bill also emphasizes the preservation of physical evidence, the honoring of protective orders, and the provision of clear information regarding investigation and disciplinary processes.
Significantly, the new legal language introduces a provision allowing victims who are not students or employees to report incidents involving students or employees, thereby expanding the scope of protections. It establishes a standard of affirmative consent for determining consent in sexual activity and ensures that individuals reporting incidents in good faith are not penalized for violations of drug or alcohol policies. The bill also extends the right to receive written results of disciplinary hearings to non-affiliated victims, ensuring compliance with the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Overall, the bill aims to improve transparency and support for all victims while reinforcing the responsibilities of educational institutions in addressing allegations of violent crimes.