The U.S. Department of Education today issued proposed regulations governing the way universities handle allegations of sexual assault and harassment as outlined under Title IX, the federal law that protects individuals from gender discrimination and ensures equal access in educational programs and activities. The proposal is now open for public comment, and the regulations will not go into effect until this period closes and the department reviews the comments.

We are reviewing the proposed regulations closely and remain committed to fostering a professional working and learning environment for all members of our campus community. Our policies are designed to both protect victims of sexual misconduct and provide due process to those accused. The office that conducts Title IX investigations is a neutral resource on campus addressing issues of discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct. The university has in place a variety of resources to support all parties navigating the investigative process, including counseling services, safety escorts, housing adjustments, academic adjustments, training, and more.

The University of Utah aims to foster a culture of safety, respect and inclusion, and will continue to provide programming, resources and education aimed at increasing awareness around the harmful effects of sexual violence and techniques for bystander intervention. We will continue to monitor the proposed regulations closely and will inform the campus if these regulations require any changes to the university’s policies and practices.

—Sherrie Hayashi, Title IX coordinator and director, Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action