New CSU sexual assault policy makes hearing a requirement

A new policy change at California State Universities will require victims of sexual misconduct to be questioned with their alleged attacker during a live hearing. California State Monterey Bay is one of the latest CSU’s to make the announcement to their students in a school wide e-mail.

The new “interim” policy is already in effect. CSU’s say it will lead to a fair process for both sides, but some students say it would make them less likely to come forward as a victim.

“It takes a lot of courage first of all to speak out about it,” CSUMB student Avery Ramirez said.

Sexual assault runs rampant throughout college campuses. According to the National Sexual Violence resource center, 11% of all college students experience rape or sexual assault.

“Ultimately this is an improvement because it allows both the complainant and the accuser to kind of bring forth the facts when previously there wasn’t that ability to have a hearing,” CSUMB public information officer Noah Rappahahn said.

A hearing between the alleged victim and accused will now be required when a student is accused of sexual misconduct, the student could face suspension or expulsion and if witness credibility is essential to the case.

However, the idea of a hearing is overwhelming to some

“When you think of a hearing, you think just so many people and having to talk to
a bunch of people about my experience to strangers,” Ramirez said. “I feel like its hard
enough to talk to someone one on one about it but to talk about it to strangers.”

CSUMB representatives say the hearing may not have to be face-to-face and that comes down to a decision by the schools Title IX officer.

“The hearing could take different forms so if there is a hearing necessary it could be over the phone, it doesn’t necessarily have to be in person,” Rappahahn said.

“It can be very difficult for somebody to talk about it even if they’re not in the same room,” Ramirez said.

Other students say it seems only fair.

“That’s something I feel like the female or male deserves to be heard out, and everyone deserves a chance to speak out about it,” CSUMB student Lexus Bradshaw said.

This is just an interim policy for the CSU’s meaning it can change.