NPR

Campuses Cautious As They Adjust To New Sexual Assault Guidelines

New federal guidelines for handling allegations of sexual assault have left many school administrators either vowing to maintain current policies or scrambling to figure out what to do.
Education Secretary Betsy DeVos recently released new guidelines on how schools should handle allegations of sexual assault. / Jacquelyn Martin / Shutterstock.com

New federal guidelines for handling allegations of sexual assault are prompting a range of reactions from school administrators. While many are expressing concerns and vowing to maintain current policy, others are breathing a sigh of relief or scratching their heads in confusion.

Education Secretary Betsy DeVos officially rescinded Obama-era rules last week, replacing them with interim guidelines, until new permanent rules can be implemented. The Department of Education's new "Q&A on Campus Sexual Misconduct" may change everything from how much evidence should be required to prove allegations to how accused students can cross-examine witnesses.

New federal guidelines for handling allegations ofsexual assault are prompting a range of reactions from school administrators. While many are expressing concerns and vowing to maintain current policy, others are

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR4 min read
Yes, Apple's New IPad Ad Is Ugly And Crushing, But Art Can't Be Flattened
The newest iPad ad depicts instruments, books and art supplies flattened into Apple's thinnest product ever. But anyone who owns and loves art in any form knows: The practicality isn't the point.
NPR2 min read
Short-term Loss For Long-term Gain? The Ethical Dilemma At The Heart Of EVs
As mines meet mineral demands for electric vehicles, they put communities and ecosystems at risk. Sustainability researcher Elsa Dominish says the EV industry cannot repeat fossil fuel's mistakes.
NPR4 min read
Senate Passes FAA Reauthorization Bill, Sending Legislation To The House
The Senate passed a bill designed to improve safety and customer service for air travelers, a day before the law governing the Federal Aviation Administration expires.

Related Books & Audiobooks